Paris, Tenn.-Paris Police Chief Chuck Elizondo, department police officers and representatives of the Henry County Food Bank on Monday helped students from Inman School load 10,798 canned goods and food items for the food bank.

The items were collected by the students as part of the school’s annual food drive. According to Educational Assistant Charlotte Robertson, the students have been working on collecting the items for three weeks. This year's total was another record, with 10,300 being collected last year.

Elizondo said the annual drive used to be a school 4-H project, but in recent years, the drive has been sponsored by the Paris Police Department.

The classes that are the top collectors in all three grades at the school are treated to pizza parties, thanks to the Paris Police.

Paris, Tenn.-Henry County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in locating an inmate who walked away from his work detail. Charles J. Delk, 34, 622 Powell St., had been serving time at the local jail for felony vandalism and had completed his sentence. He was only there awaiting pick-up from Kentucky to answer charges for possession of anhydrous ammonia.

Delk had been a trustee since May 2013, while serving the latter part of his two-year sentence at the Henry County Jail. At the time he walked away, he was on a work detail on the grounds of the jail. Delk was awaiting transport November 25 when he was discovered missing from his work assigment; he was last seen five minutes prior to leaving the grounds.

Warrants have been drawn on Delk for escape. Even though his time was complete November 25 with Henry County, he still had outstanding charges in Kentucky.

Anyone with information on Delk’s whereabouts, contact the sheriff’s office at 731-642-1672 or the Henry County hotline at 642-0929.

McKenzie, Tenn. – Bethel University’s senior nursing students presented a check for more than $1,300 to the Caring Hearts Fund of Paris and Henry County Healthcare Foundation, an organization that assists uninsured and under-insured patients with medical bills, prescriptions and transportation expenses to and from treatment.

In addition to financial assistance, the Caring Hearts Fund offers cancer survivors and caregivers a cancer support group which meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at the Cancer Care Center of Henry County.

Bethel nursing students raised the money by selling t-shirts.

For more information about Bethel University’s nursing program, call 731-352-6499 or contact Keisha Norwood at norwoodk@bethelu.edu. For more information about the Caring Hearts Fund of Paris and Henry County, contact Casey Brown at 731-644-3522 or at cbrown@cancercarecenter.org.

Dover, Tenn.-Piggly Wiggly Owner Frank Dill has been chosen as the grand marshal of the 2013 Stewart County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade this year.

Chamber President Madison Campbell said, “It was an honor to deliver the news to Frank Dill.“ Campbell said Dill’s friendly approach to customer service is still felt daily at the story. “The place is in great hands with his son Brien running the day to day business. Frank, his wife Phyllis, and their family have had such a positive influence on so many in this county. Whether you bagged groceries as your first job or shop at Piggly Wiggly daily, make sure when you see Frank to tell him congrats on this honor.“

The Christmas Parade is set for 2 p.m. Saturday, December 7. Entry fee is one toy donation for the Special Children’s Christmas program. Santa will arrive on the Chamber float and the theme for entries this year will be “Christmas Movies”.

UT Martin Set to Revoke Alpha Tau Omega Registration

Martin, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee at Martin will revoke university registration for the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity chapter at the Martin campus, pending an appeal option available to the chapter. The chapter was notified of the university’s decision Nov. 25, following an internal investigation of an alleged Nov. 7 hazing incident.

The university’s investigation found violations of student conduct, including endangering another person and participation in hazing. The chapter has five days from receipt of notification to either accept the university’s action or request an administrative hearing. Acceptance of the penalty will mean that the chapter will cease operations for 18 months and can reapply for university registration in June 2015.

A year of probation will follow, if the university again registers the chapter.

A vehicle struck a member of the fall 2013 pledge class early Thursday morning, Nov. 7, while the individual walked along a rural road with three other pledge class members in Weakley County. The Tennessee Highway Patrol and the university’s Office of Greek Life and Office of Student Conduct investigated the incident.

The chapter was initially placed on interim suspension by the university, pending the outcome of the investigation. The Alpha Tau Omega National Fraternity also ordered the immediate suspension of chapter operations until its own investigation is complete.

The national fraternity has not announced further disciplinary action for the chapter.

Bald Eagle Standing Proud

Paris, Tenn.--Charlie Allen got a bird's eye view of a bald eagle (pun intended) for several minutes when he was out sightseeing the other day. Allen took the photo at a private lake off of Hwy. 54. Allen is a retired from the Paris Police Department and said he has been enjoying his photography hobby since he retired.

Santa Coming to Paris Friday

Paris, Tenn.- Santa's arrival, crafts, stories and live animals are just a

sampling of the festive activities for North Pole Family Fun Day that is set for Friday, November 29.

The community tradition kicks off at 10 a.m. the day after Thanksgiving and

runs until 2 p.m. A Sketch Crawl will be led by Ann Stapp from 10 am to

noon and will begin at front steps of the Courthouse.

Contacted from the North Pole for an exclusive satellite interview, Santa Claus said, "I can't wait to see all of the good little boys and girls in Henry County,"

"Rudolph, the elves and I love our gingerbread house on the court square.

We'll be visiting with the youngsters each Saturday and Sunday throughout

the holiday season and Project Graduation will be on hand to take photos."

The Santa Claus house already was set up on the courthouse lawn a few weeks ago, awaiting Santa’s arrival.

"There's plenty to do after children visit with me, including four, free

The jolly old elf invites everyone to check out the schedule for Downtown

Unwrapped, a series of exciting holiday events at

www.VisitDowntownParis.com. Flyers are available from many downtown

merchants.

Union City Tax Revenues for October Up Slightly

Union City, Tenn.-Union City Mayor Terry Hailey has announced that tax revenues for the month of October were $268,041, which is just a little less than a one percent increase compared to last October.

A comparison of year-to-date totals from 2012 and 2013 indicates that tax revenues remain less at this time than last year by 3.57%, but the margin between the two years is closing as the city of Union City slowly regains earnings. Union City was hit especially hard by the closing of the Goodyear plant, but has been regaining momentum with the opening of Discovery Park of America and announcements of more industry and jobs moving to Union City.

Celebrate Christmas at The Dixie; Several Events Planned

Huntingdon, Tenn. – It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at The Dixie Carter Performing Arts & Enrichment Center. Celebrate the season with a full slate of music and fun during the happiest month of the year.

The Dixie kicks off its holiday fare Friday, Dec. 6 with A Sanders Family Christmas presented by Cumberland County Playhouse and sponsored by Carroll Bank and Trust. A Sanders Family Christmas is a nostalgic comedy set to music and the second of three installments of the Sanders family’s life.

Tickets for the World War II-era comedy are $20 each plus tax.

The following afternoon, return to The Dixie for A Main Street Christmas, sponsored by Dr. Lee Carter, in correlation with the Town of Huntingdon Christmas Parade.

Before the parade, enjoy an afternoon of performances by area choirs and our Nativi-Tea, a tea and display of hundreds of nativity scenes. The fun begins at 1 p.m. with choir performances starting at 2. The first annual gingerbread contest will be held in the main lobby. Jolly old St. Nick will be on hand to take pictures with the children, and The Dixie will be offering a 10-percent discount on upcoming main events. Local businesses will also be open on and around the Court Square some with activities and some with refreshments.

A Main Street Christmas is a free community event.

On Saturday, Dec. 14, The Dixie welcomes popular bluegrass duo Dailey and Vincent for a special “The Spirit of Christmas Concert” in the bluegrass version of The Dixie Live Concert Series.

The concert begins at 2 p.m., and tickets are $30 plus tax each.

The Dixie puts a bow on its Christmas series of events Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. with Christmas on Broadway sponsored by Firstbank, WLJT, and Noranda, an evening of Broadway and holiday favorites performed by a myriad of talent from touring professionals to serious students.

Tickets are $15.

Get your tickets to your favorite Christmas shows or buy your friends and family a Dixie gift Card at The Dixie box office in downtown Huntingdon, call 731-986-2100, or purchase online at www.dixiepac.net.

Monday, November 25, 2013

Paris Man Killed in Calloway County Accident

Hazel, Ky - A Paris man was killed in a two-vehicle car crash Monday morning on US 641 near Hazel, Ky. Tony C. Teague, age 66, was traveling northbound on US 641 when he reportedly traveled off the right side of the road and over-corrected, striking another car in the southbound lane.

Coroners called to the scene pronounced Teague dead. Both drivers were wearing seat belts.

The investigation is ongoing.

Teague's funeral arrangements are incomplete at Rawls Funeral Home in Paris.

Hazardous Weather in the Forecast

Paris and Union City, Tenn.-Highway crews have been busy treated the roadways in anticipation of hazardous weather that is forecast for our area. Sleet has already began falling in our area, making driving hazardous.

The National Weather Service is predicting additional wintry precipitation is possible Tuesday morning and Tuesday night across most of the Midsouth.

In Henry County, basketball games at the county’s schools have been cancelled for tonight.

Paris, Tenn.-Actress/Producer Summer Crockett Moore has every reason to be tired today. A Paris native, she and her husband and co-producer Tony Glazer, as well as a few fellow actors from the film “Junction” had a whirlwind trip to Paris, Murray, Union City, and McKenzie for a local premiere, red carpet reception and to promote the film.

While here, Moore said, “We spoke at Henry County High School, Paris Rotary, Bethel University, Murray State, the Paris Kiwanis and we also scouted locations for our next film.”

Friday night’s Paris premiere was followed by a well-attended red carpet reception at the Paris-Henry County Heritage Center “While we were here, we also did some downtown shopping and made sure to wear our ‘Shop Local’ t-shirts,” Moore said.

Moore also got to visit her parents, who still live in Paris.

“Junction” is playing currently at The Parisian Theater in Paris, as well as the theaters in Murray and Martin.

“We can’t thank Paris enough for the wonderful reception we received to the movie and our visit,” Moore said.

Buchanan, Tenn.-With Kentucky Lake at its winter pool currently, the shoreline at Paris Landing State Park looks different than usual in recent days. The lake does look lower than usual, but Paris Landing State Park Manager Joan Williams said, "We actually are right at normal winter pool right now." (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Pharmacy Robbed

Union City, Tenn.-Union City Police are looking for two subjects who broke into Kizer’s Pharmacy. The break-in and robbery was discovered this morning. The break-in occurred through a double-pane window beside the drive-through that was broken out.

The owner of the business checked the surveillance video which showed two subjects inside the store. One had on a gray hoodie, dressed in black and wearing gloves. The other subject was wearing all black and had on gloves. One of the subjects was carrying a black Rubber Maid tub.

An inventory will be taken to determine how much was taken during the robbery.

Christmas By The Lake Arts and Crafts Festival This Weekend

Buchanan, Tenn.-The annual Christmas By The Lake Arts and Crafts Festival will be held this weekend, Friday, November 29, through Sunday, December 1, at the Paris Landing State Park.

Russwood To Hold Christmas Parade

Springville, Tenn.-The Russwood Baptist Church will hold its first Christmas parade at 5 p.m. Saturday, December 7. The church is located at 4480 E. Antioch Road, Springville. Turn at the Dollar General store and follow Antioch Road approximately two miles. The church is on the left.

There will be decorated golf carts, Santa Claus telling the Christmas story and refreshments. It is scheduled at 5 PM. Call 731-644-0318 if you want to have an entry in the parade.

Stewart County Historical Society Hosts Trees Event

Dover, Tenn.-The Stewart County Historical Society will hold its annual Trees of Christmas event that begins December 7, the same day as Dover’s Christmas Parade.

Any individual, church, business, organization or youth group is eligible to decorate a tree if they would like. This year's theme is Christmas Movies. Anyone interested in putting up a tree may call Tana Sheets at 232-7468, or message her through Facebook.

The parade will be held in the afternoon.

MSU Dean Named President of National Association

Dr. Brian Van Horn

Murray, Ky. —Dr. Brian Van Horn of Benton, Ky., dean of Murray State University’s Center for Continuing Education and Academic Outreach, was elected president of the Association for Continuing Higher Education.

The Association for Continuing Higher Education began in 1939 as the Association of University Evening Colleges (AUEC). Today, it has become an organization dedicated to serving the entire spectrum of continuing higher education in the United States and internationally. ACHE is divided geographically into eight regions and has approximately 1,500 members representing 400 institutions and organizations.

One of the primary goals of the association is to emphasize the importance of lifelong learning and excellence in continuing higher education.

“ACHE is an international organization that represents the growing masses of adult students who return to college campuses every year. Gone are the days of traditional students only. Adult students make up about half of all college students today and serve a major role in universities,” Van Horn said. “It’s imperative that we continue to serve the traditional student, but we also have to adapt to the unique needs of the non-traditional learner as well. ACHE embraces this challenge and serves as the premier organization for this work.”

Van Horn resides in Benton, Ky., with his wife, Dr. Laurel Van Horn, and their two children, Will, 9, and Ella, 3. For more information about ACHE, go online at www.acheinc.org.

UT Martin Theatre to Perform “The Little Rose”

Martin, Tenn. – The University of Tennessee at Martin’s Vanguard Theatre will premiere Sheri Fink’s No. 1 best-selling, award-winning children’s book as a play adapted by Leon Scioscia and Sheri Fink.

The Little Rose will debut at 7 p.m., Dec. 6 and 7, in the newly renovated Fine Arts Building’s “Little Theatre.” Admission is free. General seating will be available. Seating for performances will begin at 6:30 p.m. Call 731-887-7090 for information.

The Little Rose, Fink’s first children’s book, enjoys massive popularity because of its heartfelt central message: be yourself, even in the face of bullying.

Vanguard Theatre is part of the department of visual and theatre arts at UT Martin. The department provides educational, artistic and cultural opportunities for the students of the university and the people of West Tennessee. The faculty and students serve the area through a quality undergraduate professional arts program with performances and exhibits enhancing the aesthetic and cultural awareness of the campus and region while preparing students for careers in the arts, teaching and for advanced study.

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Reprieve from High Gas Prices

Buchanan, Tenn.-Motorists looking for a reprieve from high gas prices can find it at at least two locations in the lake area. Dodd's Country Store on Hwy. 79S is currently selling gas at $2.89, while Kirk's Trading Post across the road is selling for $2.92. Gas prices a few miles down the road in Paris are much higher, at $3.14-$3.19 per gallon. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Corker to Visit Jackson Monday

Washington, D.C.- U.S. Senator Bob Corker, R-Tenn., will be in Jackson on Monday, November 25, to meet with business and community leaders.

Corker will begin the day at a lunchtime meeting of the Rotary Club of Jackson-Old Hickory, where he will discuss his work to solve the big problems facing our country.

Later, at an event co-hosted by the West Tennessee Home Builders Association and the Central West Tennessee Association of Realtors, Corker will discuss his legislation to strengthen America’s housing finance system. The Housing Finance Reform and Taxpayers Protection Act, S. 1217, would replace Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac with a privately capitalized system that preserves the availability of desirable mortgage products to creditworthy borrowers and fully protects taxpayers from future economic downturns.

W.G. Rhea Library Closings

Paris, Tenn.-The W.G. Rhea Library will be closed later this week for the Thanksgiving holiday. The library will be closed Wednesday, November 27 through Friday, November 29.

State Park Restaurants to Serve Thankgiving Dinner

Nashville, Tenn.-The Tennessee State Parks have announced that all eight state park restaurants, including Paris Landing Inn, will be open Thursday, November 28, for their annual Thanksgiving feasts.

Thanksgiving turkey and all the trimmings, along with an assortment of desserts, will be available at 11 a.m. until closing at state park restaurants. Selections and prices may vary depending on location, ranging from $13.50 to $15.95. Group reservations are recommended.

Dover, Tenn.-Stewart County Mayor Rick Joiner and representatives from the Tennessee County Services Loan Program last week finalized paperwork that resulted in Stewart County saving over $500,00 over the life of refunded county bonds.

Earlier, Stewart County refunded two notes that saved the county a total of $160,000 over the life of the loans and reportedly will refund one more next year that will save the county about $100,000 over the life of the loan.

Saturday, November 23, 2013

FBI Not Investigating Healthy Thyme Attack

Paris, Tenn.-Despite the reports provided by a Nashville television station, the Federal Bureau of Investigation is not actively investigating the beating of a health food store owner last week.

A co-owner of the Healthy Thyme health food store at 803 E. Wood St. was robbed, beaten and homophobic insults were scrawled on his forehead. After the beating, the perpetrators started a fire at the business.

The owner was transported to the hospital by local ambulance after the beating for treatment.

Paris Police Investigator Ricky Watson said the FBI is not actively investigating the incident at this time. "We are investigating the aggravated arson and robbery. The FBI has been notified, but is not actively investigating it at this time," Watson said.

Meanwhile, the Healthy Thyme co-owner is seeking the public's help in identifying the perpetrators. On the business' Facebook page, he is asking anyone who can identify the men to call the police. He said they were three men, wearing black jackets and two had on ski masks.

Healthy Thyme has been closed since the attack.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Paris Police at 731-642-2424.

Area Teams Move On To State Semifinals

At the Henry County Patriots game Friday night, the Henry County High School Madrigals, directed by Blair Chadwick, lead the crowd in the national anthem. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

In addition to Henry County and Union City, other teams in our area will be moving on to state semifinals contests in their divisions. In Class 3A, Lewis County beat Westview and will be facing CPA at CPA next Friday night. In Class 4A, Fulton will face Knoxville Catholic at Fulton and Giles Co. will face Trezevant at Giles Co.

For more information on the Henry County and Union City games, see Friday's articles.

Patriot Stadium was jumping Friday night as the Patriots beat Memphis Ridgeway to move on to the state semifinals. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Chimes for Charity to Ring Out Sunday

Union City, Tenn.-Over 300 children will receive new clothes when they are taken on holiday shopping trips Sunday as part of the annual Chimes for Charity event.

Chimes Secretary Regina Hendon said 310 children aged 4-14 will participate in the event, which will be held at 1 p.m. at Wal-Mart Supercenter.

She said the event is sponsored by the Jaycees and Jaycettes and many volunteers are needed each year for it. "We pair the volunteers with the kids, all of whom have a size sheet, and then they go shopping. For each child, $115 will be spent on clothes," she said.

She said funds for the program are raised from a variety of sources, include fundraisers at local businesses, including Wal-Mart and school events. She said Santa's Village in Martin also does a lot for the event.

Feeding of 5,000 Set for Tuesday

Union City, Tenn.-The 15th annual Feeding of the 5,000 will be held Tuesday at the First Baptist Church in union City, an event to which people of all faiths are invited.

Church Member Hattie Lou Brown said over 5,000 people will be fed this year and remarked how much progress has been made since the event began 15 years ago. "We've gone from feeding less than 300 to now feeding over 5,000," she said. "And that's just remarkable."

The name of the event derives from Scripture which described Jesus' feeding miracles, feeing multitudes with loaves and fish.

There will be activity at the church all day Tuesday, she said, with volunteers preparing and packing up meals beginning at 6 a.m. Meals are served at the church itself around 11 a.m., but are also delivered to eight satellite locations during the day. The locations include the Reelfoot Ministry, Obion County Senior Citizens center, local housing projects, etc.

Community Thanksgiving Services to be Held Sunday

Union City, Tenn.-The annual Community Thanksgiving Service will be held this year at the First United Methodist Church, 420 E. Main St. Sponsored by the Obion County Ministerial Association, the service will begin at 6 p.m., with the sermon by Rev. Ron Gray.

During the service, the welcome will be presented by Dr. Tim Atkins, scripture by Rev. Chuck McMillen, benediction by Rev. Jack Long and the community choir under the direction of John Easley will perform, as will the Joy Ringers hand bells group.

The annual service rotates from church to church. Proceeds raised during the service will go toward the Boys and Girls clubs, The Bridge and the Helping Hands Ministry.

Friday, November 22, 2013

Henry County Patriots Move On to State Semifinals

The Henry County Patriots football team runs onto the field at beginning of Friday night's game. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Paris, Tenn.-With a 42-21 win over Memphis Ridgeway Friday night, the 13-0 Henry County Patriots will move on to the state semi-final game in Division 5A next Friday night, November 29. Henry County will travel to Clarksville to face Clarksville Northeast, which beat Gallatin Friday.

At the Henry County game, Patriot Chase Henderson set a school record for most touchdowns in one game, with six.

Paris, Tenn.-After deliberating for some four hours Friday, a Henry County Circuit Court jury found Tevin Lumpkin, 21, of Milan, guilty of first-degree murder in the shooting death of Eric Kinley, 41, of Paris. Lumpkin was sentenced to life in prison by Judge Donald Parish.

Kinley was killed at the Farenheit 101 Nightclub in August of 2012. Four men were arrested in connection with Kinley’s death: Lumpkin, Jiles Yarbrough, 23, Huntingdon; Cody Harmon, 25, Lexington; and Charles Liphford, 23 of Milan. Yarbrough and Harmon were charged with first-degree murder and aggravated assault. Liphford was charged with possession of a handgun.

Lumpkin is the first to be tried in the case. After the verdict was read, Lumpkin's family members left the courthouse crying.

This week’s trial was conducted amid heavy security both inside and outside the courtroom and the courthouse, with Henry County sheriff’s deputies, Paris Police and undercover law enforcement on duty.

The jury consisted of 12 jurors, with two alternates.

During the trial, Assistant District Attorney Beth Hall presented several witnesses who testified they saw Lumpkin shoot Kinley. Jurors were also shown videos several times during the course of the trial which showed the inside of the nightclub that evening, a scuffle among the parties and the shooting, as well as the parking lot area where the parties and patrons scattered after the shooting.

Defense Attorney Terry Leonard of Camden elicited testimony from Co-Defendant Yarbrough, who insisted that he did not see Lumpkin shoot Kinley. Co-Defendant Harmon testified for the state.

Lumpkin and Harmon are being held at the Henry County Jail. Yarbrough is being held at a state prison. Liphford is free on bond.

Paris, Tenn.-The stained glass windows at Grace Episcopal Church are looking a lot brighter these days, thanks to a restoration of the original Tiffany windows that look down on the congregation. Grace Church was founded in 1898 and is the oldest church in Paris. It is located at 103 S. Poplar St.

The windows are a work of art and a source of great pride for the church and they have a story to tell all their own.

The windows were built at the Tiffany plant in Versailles, France, and each piece was separately wrapped in straw and placed in wooden kegs for shipment to Philadelphia. Father Matt Greathouse, pastor of the church, explained the window--still in pieces--were transported by horse-drawn wagon to the Berghause Company in Lancaster, Pa., where the window put together in its present form.

Once constructed (much like a puzzle being put together), the window was suspended on steel rods in a vertical position, wrapped in heavy sheets of wool and put on a flat rail car and brought to Paris by railroad.

According to a history of the windows written by the church members, upon arrival in Paris, the window was suspended on a rope-made bed drawn by six horses and brought to the intersection of Blythe and Fentress Streets. Berghause employees then carried the window the remaining two and a half blocks to Grace Church on North Poplar Street.

Installation of the window took five days and the cost at that time was $1,800.

Father Greathouse said, “There have been a couple of restoration efforts over the years, but this is the first complete overhaul and it just amazes me how much brighter it is now. The window looks so beautiful with the sun coming through it.”

The Grace Church itself was completed in 1904, thanks to funds from the famous financier J.B. Morgan, who donated money for the roof. Father Greathouse said the church itself was built in 1898, and three of the female founders had heard that Morgan was Episcopalian. “So they just wrote a letter to him telling him they were trying to complete the church and he donated money for the roof.”

The windows on the side of the sanctuary are also Tiffany glass and the Rose windows at the west end of the vestibule are historic, also. The individual pieces for those windows were rescued from great cathedrals of Europe that were destroyed during WWI and WWII. Those windows were installed in 1966 and some of the glass in them date to the 15th century.

The restoration was financed through an ongoing fundraiser at the church. The restoration was arduous in itself, requiring the Emmanuel company in Nashville to take it apart, restore it and put the pieces back together.

What is most compelling for Father Greathouse is the image of the Second Coming of Christ that is depicted in the main Tiffany windows. “That image of Christ shows he returned for us and that has been a great influence on our church. This church has been shaped by the hope it represents.”

Father Matt Greathouse with the restored Tiffany windows. (McFarlin photo).

Jury Begins Deliberating First-Degree Murder Case

Co-defendant Testifies for Defense

Jiles Yarbrough

By Shannon McFarlin

WENK/WTPR News Director

Paris, Tenn.-The jury in the first-degree murder case against Tevin Lumpkin of Milan began deliberating this morning in Henry County Circuit Court. Lumpkin is one of four men charged in the shooting death of Eric Kinley, 41, of Paris, in August of 2012, at the Farenheit 101 nightclub on Hwy. 79S outside of Paris. Lumpkin is the first to be tried in the case.

Defense Attorney Terry Leonard of Camden presented one witness during his case Thursday--Jiles Yarbrough of Huntingdon, who is a co-defendant with Lumpkin. Yarbrough’s testimony took much of the day, with lengthy cross-examination from Assistant District Attorney Beth Hall, who is presenting the state’s case.

It was a long, exhausting day for the jury. After the defense rested, the jury heard lengthy closing arguments from Hall and Leonard and heard jury instructions from Circuit Court Judge Donald Parish.

It appeared the jury might begin deliberating last evening, but instead selected a foreman and decided to recess for the night and begin deliberating today. The trial began on Monday amid heavy security both inside and outside the courtroom and courthouse.

During his impassioned testimony and cross-examination, Yarbrough said he did not know Lumpkin before the night of the shooting and that he didn’t see Lumpkin shoot Kinley.

Yarbrough was one of the performers at a rap show at the nightclub that night. He said likewise that he did not know Kinley.

He said one of the other witnesses in the case told him that night that Kinley had touched her hair and that he said to her in jest, “Do you want me to whup him?” He said when he and fellow co-defendant Cody Harmon walked up to where Kinley was standing, they were only going to get a drink, not to start a fight.

He said a scuffle did start and that Kinley hit Harmon, who was knocked down, and that Kinley also hit himself and Lumpkin during the scuffle.

Yarbrough insisted repeatedly that he did not see Lumpkin shoot Kinley. “The video shows there was no way I could have seen who had a gun,” he said.

He also insisted that he himself had nothing to do with the shooting. Under questioning by Leonard, he said he has turned down three offers from the state for a plea bargain in exchange for a guilty plea and in exchange for testifying against Lumpkin.

Leonard asked, “Why have you turned down the deals from the state?”, to which Yarbrough said, “Because I didn’t do anything and the video shows it.”

The jury once again was shown videos from the night of the shooting, but from different perspectives--from behind the bar and in the parking lot after the shooting.

Arrested in the case in addition to Lumpkin, Jiles Yarbrough, 23, Huntingdon, and Cody Harmon, 25, Lexington. Yarbrough and Harmon are charged with first-degree murder and aggravated assault.

Harmon testified at the trial on behalf of the state this week.

Also arrested was Charles Liphford, 23 of Milan, charged with possession of a handgun.

Lumpkin and Harmon are being held at the Henry County Jail. Yarbrough is being held at a state prison. Liphford is free on bond.

Henry County, Union City Play in Quarterfinals Tonight

Paris and Union City, Tenn.-Local teams are playing in the quarterfinals of the state playoffs tonight and hopefully the cold rain will ease off by kick-off time.

In Class 5A, the Henry County High School Patriots will host Memphis Ridgeway at Patriot Stadium in Paris.

Henry County is the number one ranked team in Class 5A in the state and has a perfect season.

In Class 1A, Union City will host Humboldt.

Reelfoot Ministry Looking for Volunteers, Donations

Obion, Tenn.-Reelfoot Rural Ministry is asking for donations to its annual Christmas Toy Store. The ministry needs toys and plastic shopping bags as well as volunteers. Reelfoot Rural Ministry (RRM) is a mission program of the Memphis Conference that serves four counties: Lake, Obion and Dyer Counties in northwest Tennessee and Fulton County in southwest Kentucky.

Last year, RRM’s toy store served nearly 1,700 children from 675 families. During the event, parents pay $3 to “buy” five new toys for younger children or three new toys for teens. No family pays more than $15. Executive Director Michael Blake says parents consider it very important to pay for their family’s presents.

Toy donations are now being received at RRM’s main office at 6923 Minnick Elbridge Road in Obion, Tenn., from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, except Thursday and Friday of Thanksgiving week.

All toys donated to the store should be new, unwrapped and delivered to the RRM office by Dec. 6. The ministry will also be open 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dec. 7 for last-minute deliveries.

RRM needs volunteers Dec. 2-Dec. 6 and for half a day on Dec. 7 to help sort toy donations and set up. It will then need volunteers Dec. 9-Dec. 12 to help run the store.

The store will be open for scheduled appointments by eligible families.

RRM will also need volunteers to sort items at its food bank and thrift store.

RRM needs plastic shopping bags for its Toy Store. Blake asks everyone to pass along and recycle those plastic retail shopping bags that collect in most homes.

Christmas Preview Concert Set Saturday

Paris, Tenn.-The David Johnson Chorus, Henry County High School Madrigals, and The Paris Henry County Youth Orchestra will perform at First Baptist Church at 7 p.m. this Saturday evening, November 23, for a Christmas Preview Concert.

Free Admission; donations will go to support the Paris Henry Co. Youth Orchestra.

Free Christmas Tree Permits Available at LBL

Golden Pond, Ky-—Beginning December 2, free Christmas tree permits will be available at Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area.

A permit entitles a family to cut one cedar tree between December 2 and 24. Permits, maps, and cutting guidelines may be obtained from the LBL Administrative Office, 8am-4:30pm, Monday-Friday, and at the Golden Pond Visitor Center, 9am-5pm, Saturday and Sunday. On December 24, Christmas Eve, visitors need to obtain permits before noon.

Cedar trees may be cut anywhere in Land Between The Lakes except areas within sight of US68/KY80 or Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway, cemeteries, the Nature Watch Areas, campgrounds, lawns, or other mowed areas.

Come Outside and Play at Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, managed by the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture. Land Between The Lakes provides outdoor recreation, lake access, and environmental education for the public to enjoy. Visitors are encouraged to review the official website at www.lbl.org often for Calendar of Events.

Benefit for King Family Set

Camden, Tenn.-A benefit for the family of Kenneth King will be held Friday, December 6 at Birdsong Community Center, 255 Marina Rd., Camden. Advance tickets are available and carryouts will be available. Fundraiser is to help the family with expenses following the unexpected death of Mr. King.

White beans and cornbread will be served for $5 from 5-8 p.m.; silent auction bids at 8 p.m. and karaoke from 8-11 p.m. Donations can be made directly to Oakdale Funeral Home.

According to reports with both departments, Healthy Thyme store at 803 E. Wood St. was robbed, the store proprietor was beaten and the perpetrators started a fire in the establishment.

Paris Fire Chief Michael Williams said the department was alerted to the fire at 6:16 p.m. and when firefighters arrived, the front part of the building was on fire.

Meanwhile, Paris Police were dispatched to the store on a report of a robbery in progress. The victim told investigators he was robbed and beaten by three black men who wrote a homophobic insult on his forehead as well as called him homophobic names while they were beating him.

According to the police report, the victim was badly beaten and Williams said he was transported to Henry County Medical Center by the county emergency medical services ambulance.

The report indicates that a total of $1500 was stolen from the store and recovered a gallon milk jug with gasoline in it.

Williams said the fire department stayed at the scene until 7:30 p.m.

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact the Paris Police Department at 731-642-2424.

State Rests Its Case at Murder Trial; Jury Tours Crime Scene

Defendant Tasered; Huntingdon Woman Arrested

Sharmaine Algee

By Shannon McFarlin

WENK/WTPR News Director

Paris, Tenn.-The state rested its case Wednesday afternoon in the first-degree murder trial of Tevin Lumpkin of Milan, charged in the shooting death of Eric Kinley of Paris at a local nightclub in August of last year.

Lumpkin, 21, is one of four men arrested in connection with Kinley’s shooting death. The shooting occurred at the Farenheit 101 nightclub on Hwy. 79S outside of Paris.

Before the state rested its case, the jury was transported to Farenheit 101 to witness the crime scene.

The trial began Monday amid heavy security inside and outside the courtroom and courthouse. Lumpkin’s is the first trial in connection with the case and there has been plenty of emotion and drama involved with the trial.

After reportedly becoming beligerent in the prisoner detention area of the courtroom at the end of the day Tuesday, Lumpkin was tasered by Henry County Sheriff’s deputies. According to reports filed by Deputy Cpl. Clyde Sulcer and Deputy Sgt. Bryan Hall, Lumpkin refused to put his hands behind his back when they were readying him to go back to jail.

Lumpkin reportedly told the deputies they would ‘have to taser me’ for him to comply with their request. After being tasered, Lumpkin told the officers they were ‘soft white boys’ and they wouldn’t be able to subdue him if he didn’t have on the handcuffs.

On Wednesday, a Huntingdon woman was arrested on a charge of coercion of a witness. Arrested was Sharmaine Algee, 27.

Shortly before the incident with Lumpkin, one of his co-defendants, Cody Harmon, 25, of Lexington, had testified against Lumpkin.

In testimony Wednesday, more witnesses testified that they saw Lumpkin shoot Kinley after a rucus between Lumpkin, Harmon and Yarbrough and Kinley after Kinley reportedly spoke and/or flirted with one of their female friends.

Witnesses have said they saw Lumpkin, Harmon and Yarbrough surround Kinley and that after a scuffle broke out, the shots were fired. Witnesses have agreed there were four shots and they have identified Lumpkin as the shooter, saying he pulled his gun from his waistband.

In testimony Tuesday, Medical Examiner Dr. David Zimmerman used a mannequin to demonstrate how the shots were fired. He said the entrance wounds were in Kinley’s back and exit wounds in the front of his body.

Lumpkin is being defended by Camden Attorney Terry Leonard, who began his case Wednesday afternoon. His first witness was co-defendant Jiles Yarbrough, 23, Huntingdon.

Lumpkin is one of four men arrested in connection with Kinley’s shooting death. Others arrested were: Jiles Yarbrough, 23, Huntingdon; and Cody Harmon, 25, Lexington, both charged with first-degree murder and aggravated assault. Charles Liphford, 23, of Milan, was charged with possession of a handgun. Lumpkin, Harmon and Yarbrough are still being held in the Henry County Jail.

Paris, Tenn.-E. W. Grove School sponsored a food drive for the Henry County Food Bank as a service-learning project for the Family Career and Community Leaders of America club. Students donated a total of 654 cans of food. Teacher Susan Woods’ class was the winner for ‘most cans brought’ with 86 cans and Teacher Janet Pearce’s class won for the best display of their cans of food. In photo: Koby Jones, Danielle Stafford, and Hannah Bethune with their winning display. (Submitted photo).

Perkins Awarded a Silver FFA Emblem

Melinda Perkins and Laura Moss (Submitted photo).

Louisville, Ky.- Melinda Perkins of the Henry Co-Paris FFA Chapter in Tennessee was one of 43 participants in the National FFA Job Interview Career Development Event (CDE). The event was held in conjunction with the 86th National FFA Convention in Louisville, Ky. The participant, led by advisor Laura Moss, was awarded a Silver emblem.

The top eight individuals will receive cash awards to recognize their success in the event. The cash awards and the job interview event are sponsored by CSX Transportation as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. Tori Kaplan, Assistant Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility states, "CSX is proud to support the Job Interview CDE as it prepares students with the necessary skills of interviewing and resume writing needed to stand out among the crowd."

The job interview CDE is a competitive event that tests student's ability to perform effectively throughout the entire job application process. The participants prepare a resume, cover letter and complete an online application. They also participate in phone, one-on-one and panel job interviews as part of the competition.

The event, held at The Brown Hotel in Louisville, Ky., is one of many educational activities at the National FFA Convention & Expo in which FFA members practice the lessons learned in agricultural education classes.

Area Youth to Dance with Moscow Ballet

Paducah, Ky.-Paducah youth ages 7 to 16 years will perform alongside the Moscow Ballet company of 40 professionals in the Great Russian Nutcracker to be presented at 7:30 p.m. Monday, November 25, at the Carson Center for the Arts.

On each leg of the Moscow Ballet’s tour, soloists audition local young dancers for roles that are exclusive to children and work with them in rehearsal.

Moscow Ballet’s “Dance with Us” program has benefited youhg ballet students giving them the rare opportunity of auditioning, rehearsing and performing with a professional and international touring company.

For tickets go to www.nutcracker.com

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Grades are Good for Paris Special School District

Dr. Leah Watkins presents the board with information on the state report cards. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

By Shannon McFarlin

WENK/WTPR News Director

Paris, Tenn.-The state grade report has been released and the grades for the Paris Special School District are good. Superintendent of Instruction Dr. Leah Watkins presented the local results at the board of education’s regular meeting Tuesday night, noting that overall improvements were made in key areas while progress still needs to be made in others. Last night’s meeting was held at Rhea School.

District Superintendent Mike Brown said, “I know the data is complex, but what I want the board to know is there is really good news in this report We are traditional people and we’re used to getting traditional grades, and these grades show consistent improvement year to year.”

District teachers “are working hard and we increase the number of students every year who are at proficiency level. You saw on the data that we raised grades in math and science all the way to an “A” in some grade levels and that is not easy to do.”

Moving all the way to an “A” is more than a year’s worth of growth, Brown said, “but that was done here in a year. I’d like us to focus on the good thing here and that is that our teachers are working extremely, extremely hard.”

The grades, Dr. Watkins pointed out, show achievements in areas for students with disabilities, while work still needs to be done in the areas of African-American/Hispanic and economically disadvantaged students.

Dr. Watkins reviewed the report card as it showed grades for each building and grade levels in the district and said the staff will adopt strategies to meet areas of needed improvements.

The board also heard a report from Rhea Second Grade Teachers Ashley James and Amanda Neumair on the CHAMPS program being adopted in their classrooms. CHAMPS is an acronym which stands for Conversation, Help, Activity, Movement, Participation and it is a new approach to classroom management.

James and Neumair showed the board a video they made of students interacting in class and discussing the CHAMPS program.

The best thing about CHAMPS, they agreed, is that it’s such a positive program, whose underlying message is instilling guidelines for success in the students.

In other business:

--The board authorized Brown, Board Member Amy Cathey and Staff Member Kathy Hart to pick out a new district logo from prototypes that have been prepared. The designs incorporate the Eiffel Tower with the colors of all the schools in the district.

--As usual, there is no board meeting planned in December unless the situation warrants.

FOP Cops and Kids Receives Donations

Paris, Tenn.-The Fraternal Order of Police Cops and Kids program received donations from Holy Cross Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus at a check presentation at the church Tuesday morning. The donations are for $1400 ($700 apiece) for the program. From left are: Dean Lechner, Charlie Brown, Jim Hopper, Paris Police Chief Chuck Elizondo and John Baskitis. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Videos Shown To Jurors in Murder Case

By Shannon McFarlin

WENK/WTPR News Director

\Paris, Tenn.-Jurors in the first-degree murder case of Tevin Lumpkin of Milan being tried this week in Henry County Circuit Court were shown videos of the night that Eric Kinley of Paris was killed in a local nightclub in August of 2012 during proceedings on Tuesday.

Witnesses testified as to activities that occurred at the former Farenheit 101 nightclub on Hwy. 79S in the early morning hours when Kinley, 41, was shot and killed. Four men have been charged in connection with Kinley’s shooting death and Lumpkin’s trial is the first in the case. There is heavy security both inside and outside the courtroom and courthouse while the trial is proceeding.

Among those who testified during a lengthy court session Tuesday were Medical Examiner Dr. David Zimmerman; Co-Defendant Cody Harmon of Lexington, who testified against Lumpkin as part of a plea agreement; Tamika Ray, a girlfriend of another co-defendant; and former nightclub bouncer Tommy Taylor.

Representing the state is Assistant District Attorney Beth Hall and representing Lumpkin is Camden Attorney Terry Leonard.

Tamika Ray, a girlfriend of one of the arrested men, testified that Kinley had touched her hair and complimented her on it. She testified that she did not know Lumpkin, but that she and co-defendant Jiles Yarbrough were friends. She pointed out various people she recognized in a surveillance video of that evening.

Under cross-examination, Lumpkin’s attorney Terry Leonard of Camden, asked Ray, “After Mr. Kinley pulled your hair, you stayed upstairs for two minutes before you went to Jiles Yarbough” to tell him about the encounter.

She agreed with Leonard that with the music so loud, it was difficult to communicate with Yarbrough. She also agreed with Leonard that Lumpkin could not hear anything that she was saying to Yarbrough, but agreed that Yarbrough said “he was going to go up and whup him (Kinley)”, as Leonard phrased it.

Leonard asked, “Did you think there was going to be a barroom brawl” as a result and she replied no.

Tommy Taylor of Paris, a bouncer at the nightclub, testified to what he saw the night of the shooting, discussing how the argument between the parties escalated and that he had told them to knock it off twice.

Taylor said men surrounded Kinley during the argument and that shots were fired while he was trying to break up the fight “and everything went crazy”. He said he heard one shot, a pause and then four more shots. He said he tried to perform CPR on Kinley and the shooter and other man ran off. He identified Lumpkin as the shooter.

Under cross-examination, Leonard challenged Taylor’s ability to pick Lumpkin out of the photo array due to the flashing lights inside the nightclub that night and the chaos that erupted with the shooting.

Jurors also were shown a production video that was taken by a professional company the night of the shooting. The video showed rap performances taking place and some of the principles involved were in the video.

Lumpkin is one of four men arrested in connection with Kinley’s shooting death. Others arrested were: Jiles Yarbrough, 23, Huntingdon; and Cody Harmon, 25, Lexington, both charged with first-degree murder and aggravated assault. Charles Liphford, 23, of Milan, was charged with possession of a handgun. Lumpkin, Harmon and Yarbrough are still being held in the Henry County Jail.

Democratic Primary Petitions Can Be Picked Up Friday

Paris, Tenn.- The Henry County Democratic Party has officially notified the Henry County Election Commission there will be a Democratic County Primary on May 6, 2014.

The first day to pick up qualifying petitions will be Friday, November 22, 2013. The qualifying deadline for the May 6 primary will be Thursday, February 20, 2014, at noon. The qualifying deadline is set for everyone regardless of party affiliation.

The following county offices are to be a part of that primary: Henry County Mayor, Henry County Sheriff, Henry County Circuit Court Clerk, Henry County Court Clerk, Henry County Trustee, Henry County Register of Deeds and Henry County General Sessions Judge/Henry County Juvenile Judge. If you have any questions please call the Henry County Election Commission at 731-642-0411.

Union City, Tenn.-The City Chick BBQ Sauce company in Union City was spotlighted in Saturday's Tennessean. In the column, "Made in Tennessee", City Chick BBQ Owner Lynn Cox said she's been making sauces for about 28 years, beginning when she lived on a military base in Kansas.

She said when the Goodyear Plant in Union City shut down in 2011, she wanted to supplement her income and thought the time was right to bottle her own sauce.

She was able to do that with the help of the Northwest Tennessee Entrepreneurship Center, which taught people how to start their own businesses.

Her sauce, she said, "takes meatloaf to a whole new level. It's good on barbecue pizza. We use fresh pepper and garlic, which gives it a home-style taste."

Cox said she manufactures the sauce in her garage, which has been converted into a commercial kitchen. Her sauce is available at Legends in Union City and she has sold it at the Tennessee State Fairgrounds flea market and the Southern Women's Show.

She said she is planning to create different recipes using natural ingredients, like fruit, fresh applies, peaches and pineapples.

Nashville, Tenn.– Tennesseans aspiring to pass the current version of the GED® test before the end of 2013 can take advantage of an expanded test-retake policy just announced by the GED Testing Service, according to Labor & Workforce Development Administrator Marva Doremus. The change enables more people to retake the test before the present GED test version expires December 31, 2013.

“The GED test is given in three forms. People who have taken all three versions of the GED test this year are allowed to retake the test or certain parts as long as it has been 60 days since the test-taker took that particular form of the test,” said Doremus. Previously, test takers were limited to take the GED test three times per year.

The change in the retake policy is especially aimed at assisting those who have started the GED test but have not finished and passed every section. All scores will expire at the end of this year, and test-takers will have to start over with the new revised GED test or the alternative high school equivalency test called HiSET™ that will also be offered in Tennessee.

For details on taking the GED test or retaking certain parts before the close of 2013, contact the Adult Education Division of the Department of Labor & Workforce Development at 1-800-531-1515 or visit the department’s Website at http://www.tn.gov/labor-wfd/AE.

Health Insurance Deadlines Approaching

Paris, Tenn. –There are two important dates to remember if you plan to enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace and shop for health coverage for yourself and your family. Those dates are Dec. 15, 2013, and March 31, 2014.

In spite of the well-publicized problems with the government’s www.healthcare.gov website—the avenue most Americans who qualify will use to enroll in these insurance exchanges—deadlines for applying for coverage in the first year of the program remain in place at this point in time, according to a press release issued by Henry County Medical Center.

If you intend to enroll and want to have health coverage in place through the exchange beginning Jan. 1, 2014, the deadline for enrollment is Dec.15, 2013. If you want to get coverage any time in 2014, you must complete the enrollment and plan selection process by March 31, 2014.

Given the experience to date with the enrollment process, you should not wait until the last minute to begin the enrollment process. In fact, we urge you to start the process before December 1 if you want to be covered on Jan. 1, 2014, and before the end of February 2014 if you want to have coverage that would begin any time between April 1 and Dec. 31, 2014.

Here are a few things you should know if you think you might be eligible to participate:

First, you must create an “account” on the Health Insurance Marketplace before you can shop the options that are available. Call 1-800-319-2596 or visit www.healthcare.gov/marketplace to begin the enrollment process. In order to complete that process, you will need to have three things handy: 1) your social security number and the social security numbers for all of the members of your household who will be covered under your policy; 2) W-2 forms or pay stubs for every member of your household who will be covered under your policy; and 3) policy numbers for any health insurance plans in which members of your household presently are enrolled.

Secondly, there may be financial aid available to you to help you afford premiums and co-pays, depending on your household income. However, some of the cost-sharing subsidies only are available under “silver level plans” so you will need to be sure you choose the plan that is right for you and your family.

Finally, you must pay the first month’s premium on the policy before it actually takes effect.

If you are having trouble signing up, or don’t fully understand all your options, feel free to contact one of Henry County Medical Center’s HIM Certified Application Counselors, Amy Odom, Pharmacy Assistant or Tina Umstead, LPN at (731) 644-8215. They would also be happy to provide you with handouts, brochures, and information that can assist you with the process.

Bomb Threat Prompts Arrests

Murray, Ky.-On Tuesday November 19, 2013 at approximately 9:30 am the Calloway County Sheriff’s Office was again notified of a bomb threat written in a bathroom stall and on a bathroom wall at the Calloway County High School, according to a press release from the sheriff’s office.

Both notes were discovered in a girl’s bathroom. School Resource Deputy Brandon Gallimore immediately began an investigation and notified his superiors. In the threat a reference was made to a time and based on the time frame the deputy had to work with, two individuals were identified as going to the bathroom around the time and in the same area the notes were found.

Two girls were identified and interviewed by school officials and the resource officer/deputy. During this interview an admission was obtained. Both girls are 18 years old and are seniors at Calloway High. Charged with Terroristic Threatening in the 2nd Degree, a class D felony are: Shelby L. Scott of the Almo Community and Kelsea D. Roberts also of the Almo Community.

An investigation into the recent threats earlier discovered at the Calloway Co. High School and the Calloway Co. Middle School is continuing. Both girls were lodged in the Calloway County Detention Center. Sheriff Marcum would like to remind everyone that all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

VFW Sign Destroyed by Fire

Paris, Tenn.-The electrical sign at the VFW Post 1889 was destroyed by fire early Tuesday morning. The Paris Fire Department was called to the scene at 6 a.m. on a report that the sign was on fire. Fire Chief Michael Williams said the sign was a total loss and that the Board of Public Utilities was called to cut off the power to the sign. Williams said the probable cause of the fire is electrical. The VFW is located on East Wood Street. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Opening Remarks Presented in Murder Trial

Security is tight at the first-degree murder trial ongoing at the Henry County Courthouse this week. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Paris, Tenn.-Under heavy security both inside and outside the Henry County Courthouse, both sides presented their opening remarks Monday on the first day of the first-degree murder trial of Tevin Lumpkin of Milan. Lumpkin is the first defendant to be tried for the shooting death of 41-year-old Eric Kinley of Paris at the former Farenheit 101 nightclub on Hwy 79S outside of Paris in August of 2012.

Jury selection took a full morning and opening remarks occurred right after court resumed following the lunch hour. Assistant District Attorney Beth Hall is representing the state and Camden Attorney Terry Leonard represents Lumpkin.

In her opening remarks, Hall discussed how the incident evolved which led to the shooting of Kinley, telling jurors how a remark Kinley made to a girl inside the nightclub escalated into a confrontation. In his opening, Leonard said the confrontation was not all one-sided, but involved pushing and shoving on both sides.

Taking the stand for the prosecution during the afternoon were former TBI Agent Joe Walker, Henry County Sheriff’s Deputy Sgt. Brian Hall, and the former owner of the nightclub.

Lumpkin is one of four men arrested in connection with Kinley’s shooting death. Others arrested were: Jiles Yarbrough, 23, Huntingdon; and Cody Harmon, 25, Lexington, both charged with first-degree murder and aggravated assault. Charles Liphford, 23, of Milan, was charged with possession of a handgun. Lumpkin, Harmon and Yarbrough are still being held in the Henry County Jail.

Reelfoot Ministry Still Raising Funds

A Reelfoot Ministries work camp getting ready for a 2012 project. (Reelfoot photo).

By Shannon McFarlin

WENK/WTPR News Director

Obion, Tenn.-With its Jubilee Celebration held recently, the Reelfoot Ministry is still raising funds for its programs.

Reelfoot Ministries is a rural ministry of the United Methodist Church which serves Lake, Obion and Dyer Counties in Tennessee and Fulton County in Kentucky. According to Board of Trustees Chair Beth Brown, Reelfoot Ministries has 18 programs that includes a full-time state-licensed day care center, a seniors program, a food program that serves the hungry, an emergency services program for folks in crisis, a thrift store, and a toy store at Christmas that served 1600 children in poverty last year.

Brown said volunteers are going to be needed soon to assist with this year’s toy store and the program is accepting toys now. The store will be open for qualified families the second week of December.

The Jubilee “was a great day of celebration” and included a sermon by Nashville Area Bishop Bill McAllily, while Yancy and Yancy of Memphis provided music.

Brown also announced at the Jubilee that the ministry’s dental clinic has been officially named the John Talley Dental Clinic after Dr. John Talley of Dyersburg. She said he was the pioneer dentist who began the dental program in 1973. Dr. Talley volunteered his professional services for 18 years, she said. The program has grown and now includes nine dentists who volunteer each month and two eye doctors providing eye care each month.

Reelfoot Ministries is still raising funds for the program and is hopeful that more donations will arrived before the end of 2013, she said.

The Board of Trustees established a goal of $250,000, which would go toward four components: an activities building and safe room with an estimated cost of $80,000; transportation van for $35,000; seed money for building homes for $50,000 and financial security at $85,000.

Toy donations are being received at the Reelfoot Ministry’s main office at 6923 Minnick Elbridge Rd. in Obion, Tenn., from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, except Thursday and Friday of Thanksgiving Week.

All toys donated should be new, unwrapped and delivered to the office by Dec. 6.

Volunteers are needed Dec. 2-6 and for half a day on Dec. 7 to help sort toy donations and set up. It will also need volunteers Dec. 9-Dec. 12 to help run the store.

The ministry also needs plastic shopping bags for the toy store.

Reelfoot Ministry is also collecting gifts for approximately 60 participants in its senior and homebound programs. Call 731-538-9000 for more information.

Youth Summit Draws Large Crowd

Paris, Tenn.-Henry County Health Department representative Barbara Kelley was one of the speakers at Saturday's Youth Summit sponsored by the Ladies With Swag (Sisters With a Goal) organization. A large crowd of young ladies heard speakers from the Henry County Sheriff's Department, schools, Carey Counseling and other agencies. (Photo submitted by Paula Byars-Stockdale).

Houston County Historical Society Resumes Veteran Interviews

Erin, Tenn.-The Houston County Archives is celebrating its third anniversary this month and the Historical Society is looking to resume interviews with veterans and other older residents to record the county’s history.

At a recent meeting of the Society, President Jerry Bybee told members the Society has obtained new video equipment. He said the interviews will focus not only on the veterans’ service, but on their family histories.

The Historical Society is soliciting the names of people it can interview for the project.

The Houston County Historical Society can be contacted through its Facebook page.

Bethel Informational Session Set

Paris, Tenn.-A Bethel University Information session will be held on the Bethel Paris Campus, Room 104, 302B Tyson Ave., in Paris, from 2-5 p..m. Tuesday, November 19. Call Toni Bowden 731-363-8322 for undergraduates or Mark Bell 731-358-5324 for gradute students.

Trivia Night to Benefit Youth

Paris, Tenn.-A Trivia Night will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, November 23, at the First United Methodist Church. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. The evening will benefit the church youth service project.

Teams of up to eight will be $25 for each team. Individuals can pay $5 and find a team once they arrive. Concessions will be available.

Arts Council Scholarship Winners

Paris, Tenn.-The Paris Henry County Arts Council and Youth for the Arts has announced its Fall semester scholarship winners: E.W. Grove Library Art Program, Autumn Price and the R.E.A.L. Hope Art Workshop. E

Each received funds to help continue to the presentation or practice of arts in the area.

Library to Be Closed Friday

The W. G. Rhea Public Library will be closed Friday, November 22 for staff training.

Burglary Investigated

Union City, Tenn.-Union City Police are investigating a burglary of copper electrical wiring from a residence on Harrison Street on Friday. The resident said an unknown person entered his home while it was unoccupied through a crawl space which leads to the basement.

Approximately $2,000 worth of wiring was stolen. An extra watch has been put on the residence.

Dickson, Tenn.-Freed-Hardeman University has reached an agreement with the Jackson Foundation to assume ownership of the Renaissance Center in Dickson, and offer a four-year undergraduate program and graduate degrees on site, the first such program in Dickson’s history.

Officials from Freed-Hardeman and the Jackson Foundation executed documents on Friday, effecting the immediate transfer, which was approved by a unanimous vote of both governing boards.

The agreement represents the largest gift ever to Freed-Hardeman in its history.

Under the agreement, the current “Renaissance Center” name and mission will remain intact. In addition to offering college courses, Freed-Hardeman will continue to operate the Renaissance Center as a community venue for a variety of activities, such as classes, meeting space and performances. The facility draws tens of thousands of school children and adults each year.

“When we first started exploring opportunities to expand, we never imagined we’d be given a state-of-the-art learning facility,” according to Freed-Hardeman President Joe Wiley. “This is a transformational event in the history of our university. The Renaissance Center is the answer to a lot of prayers and represents the largest gift in the history of Freed-Hardeman University.”

Doug Jackson, president of the Jackson Foundation, said, “This is a landmark event for our community. The opportunities that will flow out of this partnership are almost beyond counting. We’re not only creating a new path to a college education for the people of Dickson County, but we’re also bringing in new jobs, new investment and new residents.”

Bringing Freed-Hardeman to Dickson is the fulfillment of a long-term strategic goal of both organizations. From day one, the Jackson Foundation has made it a top priority to recruit a four-year university to the city and county of Dickson. Likewise, the board of Freed-Hardeman has been actively pursuing opportunities to expand into Middle Tennessee.

The Jackson Foundation created the Renaissance Center in 1999 as part of its mission to inspire excitement about education for both youth and adults. It was designed as a fine arts and technology learning center and was opened in 1999 for $18 million.

The Renaissance Center includes 110,000 square feet of classroom space, conference rooms, film and video production studios, theater areas, offices, and more. As part of the transfer agreement, the Jackson Foundation has officially bestowed the building, the grounds, and the parking lot to Freed-Hardeman University as a gift.

Some of the Renaissance Center’s full-time staff members will become Freed-Hardeman employees on Monday, December 2, 2013, and these positions will be maintained permanently by the university. In addition, the university anticipates adding full-time positions in Dickson by the start of the fall semester of 2014.

In the fall of 2014, Freed-Hardeman will begin offering complete, four-year undergraduate and graduate programs on site, pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Although the Renaissance Center is officially part of Freed-Hardeman University, the Jackson Foundation will continue to operate out of the facility. In addition, the Foundation retains ownership of 200 acres of land surrounding the center. The foundation’s mission also remains intact—to provide a wide range of educational opportunities to the local community at little or no cost.

The first Freed-Hardeman students are expected to arrive for classes at the Renaissance Center in the fall semester of 2014. Decisions about what courses of study will be offered in Dickson will be made in the coming months after market research and discussions with business and academic leaders in Middle Tennessee.

Affiliated with the Churches of Christ, Freed-Hardeman University has been providing men and women with top-tier academic opportunities in a Christian environment since 1869. Today, the school hosts more than 1,800 graduate and undergraduate students at its primary campus in Henderson, Tenn. The university also hosts an expansion campus in Memphis. Visit Freed-Hardeman University online at www.fhu.edu.

Allen Named Community Volunteer of Year

Henry County Receives Relay Awards

Dana Allen receives her award from David Lane, American Cancer Society Community Representative. (Submitted photo).

Memphis, Tenn.-Henry County Cancer Society Community Volunteer Dana Allen was named the Community Volunteer of the Year for 2013 at the West Tennessee Relay for Life Awards luncheon in Memphis Saturday. Allen was the Henry County Relay for Life Event Chair in 2013.

Henry County Relay for Life itself was recognized as the Number Three Relay event in West Tennessee in 2013, having raised $138,715 after expenses. Henry County Relay also received the All American Relay Award for meeting, messaging and branding guidelines as an American Cancer Society Relay for Life event.

Allen said she was honoured by the award, which she accepted “on behalf of all our amazing Relay for life volunteers in Henry County, which is the best of the west in relays!”

The Top Five Relays in the West Tennessee Market in 2013 were: Madison County, which raised $320,089; Dyer County, $177,000; Henry, $138,715; Lauderdale, $123,416; and Henderson, $106,056.

Attending the luncheon from Henry County were: Allen, her son Kendall Allen, who serves on the local junior committee; Former Relay Chair Joyce Bass; Incoming Relay Co-Chair Sabrina Buckley, and Dana Team Capt. Marsha Carlton.

Top Five Relays are display at American Cancer Society luncheon. (Submitted photo).

Nightclub Murder Trial To Begin Today

Tevin Lumpkin

Paris, Tenn.-The first-degree murder trial of Tevin Dominique Lumpkin of Milan commences today in Henry County Circuit Court. The jury selection process was underway early this morning for the trial.

Lumpkin is the first defendant to be tried for the shooting death of 41-year-old Eric Kinley at the former Farenheit 101 nightclub on Hwy. 79S outside of Paris. The trial is being conducted under heavy security and is expected to last three to four days.

Lumpkin is one of four men arrested in connection with the shooting death of Kinley in August of 2012. Others arrested were Jiles Yarbrough, 23, Huntingdon; and Cody Harmon, 25, Lexington, both charged with first degree murder and aggravated assault. Charles Liphford, 23, of Milan, was charged with possession of a handgun.

Lumpkin, Yarbrough and Harmon are still being held in the Henry County Jail.

Lakewood Speech Team Brings Home More Awards

Lakewood team displays its trophies. (Submitted photo).

Nashville, Tenn.-The Lakewood Middle School Speech Team competed in the L’il Granny White Invitational at Brentwood Academy over the weekend and placed second overall, out of five schools, with 19 finalists from Lakewood.

Lakewood’s next tournament will be the Jr. Hilltopper Invitational at Western KY State University in Bowling Green on December 7th.

The team is coached by David Weatherly.

Paris Lioness Luncheon is Friday

Paris, Tenn.-The Paris Lioness Club Annual Luncheon will be held Friday, November 22, at Ketchum Hall at the Grace Episcopal Church, 406 N. Poplar St. Hours are from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

All you can eat with soup, sandwich, dessert and drink, $8. Take outs available. Tickets are available at the door and from club members. For further information, call 731-642-1299.

JFK Presentation Set at Murray State

Murray, Ky. — Judge Jeff S. Taylor, an alumnus of Murray State University and former member of the MSU board of regents, will be on campus on Thursday, Nov. 21, for a presentation — “JFK Assassination 50 Years Later: What Do We Know?.”

Hosted by the MSU department of political science and sociology, Taylor’s presentation will delve into the much-debated events of Nov. 22, 1963, when charismatic young U.S. President John Fitzgerald Kennedy was assassinated during a campaign visit in Dallas, Texas. Through the years, conspiracy theories have abounded regarding the essential question of who exactly killed Kennedy.

Those who remember the day of Nov. 22, 1963, are encouraged to attend the presentation and share their memories with the younger generation.

Taylor currently serves as a judge with the Kentucky Court of Appeals representing the 2nd Appellate District, which includes 14 counties. He earned an M.P.A. from Memphis State University and his law degree from the University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law.

Taylor practiced law for over 20 years before joining the Court of Appeals. He has served on the Kentucky Bar Foundation board of directors and is a member of the Kentucky Judicial Ethics Committee, as well as several bar associations and civic organizations.

Taylor’s presentation will begin at 7 p.m. and will be held in the auditorium of the Wrather West Kentucky Museum on MSU’s campus. The event is free and Murray State students, faculty and staff, along with community members are invited to attend.

Holiday Art Auction Set for Friday

Murray, Ky. — Holiday Art Auction-goers this year will have an opportunity to bid on an experience package with Dale Leys, drawing professor at Murray State University. Six lucky benefactors will have the opportunity to trek through the Land Between the Lakes with the artist, with the day culminating in a side-by-side drawing experience.

This and more is available at the 2013 annual Murray State University Holiday Art Auction, taking place on Friday, Nov. 22, in the Clara M. Eagle Gallery on the sixth floor of the Price Doyle Fine Arts Building. The event is open to the public and patrons are invited to preview the live auction items from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The silent auction will begin at 6:30 p.m. and the live auction at 7:30 p.m.

The Holiday Art Auction presents an impressive selection of artwork, including work donated by MSU art and design students, alumni and faculty, as well as notable local artists. Attendees will find paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, ceramics, small sculpture, jewelry, handmade books and more available for purchase, making it the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind pieces for anyone. The silent auction will include nearly 100 items; approximately 20 select items will be featured in the live auction.

Highlights in this year’s auction include a watercolor by MSU drawing professor Dale Leys, whose work was recently celebrated in a 40-year retrospective exhibit in Paducah, as well as beautiful ceramic plates made by MSU ceramics professor John Utgaard and hand-decorated by other faculty and students.

This year’s event, emceed by Colin Tuis Nesbit, the director of University Galleries and conducted by auctioneer, Greg Reynolds, will feature live music by local favorite Kala Dunn and friends.

JT McCabe send us this photo that he took in the Clarksville area today as storm clouds flew overhead.

Paris and Union City, Tenn.-As severe weather moved through in waves all day today, our area still remains under a tornado watch until 7 p.m. tonight.

The National Weather Service reported winds in excess of 60 mph located 24 miles west of Paris Landing State Park and 12 miles southwest of Murray during the afternoon, while heavy rain and hail moved through the area periodically.

There have been no reports of damage, however, in our immediate area. As Henry County Sheriff's Office Dispatcher Mike Chandler put it, "We've had no damage reports today, knock wood. We've been keeping close watch."

Rotation was reported in Stewart County and tornadoes did touch down in nearby Kentucky, with a barn flattened in Lyon County, Ky. Hit hardest in our immediate area was the town of Brookport, Ill, which is across the Ohio River from Paducah. Two trailer parks and 55 house trailers were destroyed and as of 6:30 p.m., two people there were reported deceased and a search continues for a third missing person.

Tornado Watch Declared for Henry, Obion

Paris and Union City, Tenn.-The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch until 7 p.m. for the following Tennessee counties: Carroll, Crockett, Dyer, Gibson, Henry, Lake, Lauderdale, Obion and Weakley.

A tornado had been spotted in the Paducah area around 2:30 p.m. and was still moving eastward in mid-afternoon.

Residents in our area are advised to take precautions as needed and keep a careful eye on the weather.

Christmas in Paris Event Draws Huge Crowd

Event Still Going On Sunday

Sue Quinn of Paris gladly accepts a tasty morsel from Nina Owen and her daughter Giovanna at Christmas in Paris. Owen is the creator of the popular Gio Bellas candies in Paris. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Paris, Tenn.-A huge crowd was on hand for Saturday's Christmas in Paris event at the Paris Convention Center. The 6th annual event is host to 50-plus vendors including Scentsy, Wags Barkery, Whitlock Pottery, Paris Winery, State Line Ranch, Plexus Slim, Gio Bella's Candies and more. The event is still going on today from noon to 4 p.m. The Paris Convention Center is behind the Quality Inn on E. Wood St.

Roger and Lisa Ciarrocchi of the Paris Winery were giving out samples of their homemade wine. (McFarlin photo).

Sarah England of Wags' Barkery in Paris helps with another purchase of the homemade doggie treats for sale from the business. (McFarlin photo).

Quota Club Plans Trip to Western State

Paris, Tenn.-Looking ahead to the holidays, members of the Paris Quota Club are planning its annual trip to the Western State Mental Hospital to take gifts for residents for their Christmas. The committee will package the gift boxes on December 2 at First Presbyterian Church and the truck will pick them up December 3. Members were asked to turn in sweatsuits they purchased for the boxes.

November 21 is the Thanksgiving lunch for the Outreach Center and members were reminded of what to bring and that servers are needed.

Members also voted to contribute to a fund for cremation of indigent people in Henry County. The fund has been started by Coroner Danny Tucker.

Members are still selling pecans for $10 per one-pound bag. Halves and pieces are available from members and in several Paris businesses.

The annual McDonald’s Burger Bash will be held from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, November 26. McDonald’s donates a percentage of everything that is sold during those two hours and proceeds go toward the club’s scholarship fund.

Those celebrating Quota anniversaries are Dolores Harvie – 29 years; Lois Hudspeth – 42 years and Janice Teas – 12 years; for a total of 83 years of service.

The next meeting will be on November 27 at Lee Academy Lunchroom with Quotarian Norma Steele presenting the program.

The Christmas Party will be Monday, December 9th at 6 pm at Lee Academy Lunchroom.

LBL Announces Archery Deer Hunting Rules

Golden Pond, Ky.-Land Between the lakes National Recreation Area will open certain areas typically marked as “No Hunting” zones for archery deer hunting. Hunters are encouraged to harvest antler less deer in these areas to reduce deer populations.

Kentucky areas will be open to archery hunting from December 1 through January 20, including Hillman Ferry and Energy Lake campgrounds. Tennessee areas will be open to archery hunting from December 1 through January 5 and include Brandon Spring, Piney Campground and South Nature Watch.

Remember, hunting is not permitted within 150 yards of any facility, building or occupied area. Maintenance staff continues working throughout the winter in facilities.

Energy Lake, Hillman Ferry and Piney campgrounds will close for the season on November 30.

All deer hunters age 16 and older are required to purchase an LBL Hunter use Permit. Hunters must possess a hunting license and big game tag appropriate for the state portion of LBL on which they hunt.

Saturday, November 16, 2013

Severe Weather Threat for Sunday

Paris and Union City, Tenn.-The National Weather Service is calling for severe weather in all of Western and Middle Tennessee Sunday. A severe weather outbreak may include damaging straight line winds, thunderstorms and the possibility of tornadoes.

But damaging winds will be the primary threat with localized flash flooding. A wind advisory is in effect west of Union City to the Charleston, Mississippi, line.

Henry County, Union City in Quarterfinals, Opponents Announced

Paris and Union City, Tenn.-Both the Henry County Patriots and Union City Golden Tornadoes will move on to the quarterfinals in the state football playoffs.

In Class 5A, the Patriots defeated Memphis East Friday night by a score of 17-14 and will host Memphis Ridgeway in the quarterfinal game Friday night, November 22.

Henry County is the number one ranked team in Class 5A in the state.

In Class 1A, Union City defeated Hollow Rock-Bruceton and will host Humboldt next Friday night.

Other teams in our area will not be moving on in the playoffs, however.

Also in Class 1A, Dresden was beat by Humboldt by a score of 28-13.

In Class 2A, Huntingdon lost to Mitchell by a score of 40-28.

In Class 3A, Camden was defeated by Lewis County 32-20.

Big Sandy Man Reported Missing

Big Sandy, Tenn.-The Memphis Police Department has issued a Missing Person Alert for a Big Sandy Man who has been gone from home for about 11 days.

The man was identified as 48-year-old Derrick Wade, who also is known as "DD". He reportedly travelled to Memphis November 4 to visit a daughter and has not been heard from since.

He is described as 6 feet tall, 220 pounds, salt and pepper hair and blue eyes. He was driving a 2003 Chevy Trailblazer with Benton Co. tags and a Tennessee Vols tag on the front of the car. He is reportedly without his medications.

Anyone who has seen him or knows of his whereabouts, please contact local law enforcement.

Grizzlies to Host Chamber Night

Memphis, Tenn.-The Memphis Grizzlies will host its first annual West Tennessee Chamber Night Saturday, Nov. 30, at Fed Ex Forum. The Grizzlies will face the Brooklyn Nets that night.

All chamber members in West Tennessee and their employees are invited to the game at a discount. Tickets will start at $40. Grizzlies sales department encourages Chambers to order tickets now.

Juvenile Charged in Sign Thefts

Murray, Ky.-The theft of numerous road signs in Calloway County has resulted in charges being filed against a Murray juvenile who admitted during interviews with the Calloway County Sheriff's Office that he took the signs.

Interviews were conducted with several juveniles on November 12 by deputies. The juvenile who admitted the thefts will be charged through the court-designated worker policy with six counts of theft by unlawful taking, according to a press release from the Calloway County sheriff's office.

It was discovered during the interviews that most of the signs had been destroyed. .

Sheriff Bill Marcum would like to remind everyone that all persons are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Sheriff Marcum would also like to encourage anyone that witnesses any unusual or possible criminal activity to call the Sheriff’s Office at 270-753-3151 or utilize the tips@callkyso.com.

Friday, November 15, 2013

Henry County Patriots Beat Memphis East; Move on in Playoffs

Paris, Tenn.-The Henry County Patriots defeated a tough Memphis East team Friday night to move on to round three of the state high school playoffs. Final score: Henry County 17, Memphis East 14.

Henry County will face either Melrose or Ridgeway next Friday night at Patriot Stadium. Henry County's opponent will be announced later at http://www.tssaa.org or at http://www.coacht.com.

Henry County is ranked number one in Division 5A in the state.

Wreck Shuts Down Portion of Volunteer Drive

Paris, Tenn.-A two-vehicle accident left a Budget truck on its side and a portion of Volunteer Dr. shut down for a time Friday afternoon. A pickup truck and the Budget truck collided at the intersection of Volunteer Dr. and East Wood St. Friday, prompting a huge response from the Paris Police Department, Henry County sheriff's department, Tennessee highway patrol, and Paris Fire Department. The Budget truck was pulling a trailer with a car on it. No report on the accident was available from the Paris Police early Friday afternoon. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Local Teams Play Second Round Playoff Games Tonight

Paris and Union City, Tenn.-Several of our local school districts will be abuzz tonight either hosting or traveling to their second round high school football playoff games tonight. The Union City Golden Tornadoes will face Hollow Rock-Bruceton on their purple and gold football field (pictured above) in Class 1A action. Meanwhile, in Paris, the Henry County Patriots will host Memphis East at Patriot Stadium. The Patriots are the top-ranked Class 5A team in the state. In Class 2A, Huntingdon will face Memphis Mitchell at Huntingdon. In Class 3A, Camden will play Lewis County at Lewis County and in Class 4A, Fulton will play Sullivan South at Fulton.

Henry County Schools Get Good Marks on Report Card

Amanda Mason Named TEL Trainer of Year

Amanda Mason receives her TEL Trainer of Year award from Board President Tom Beasley as Director of Schools Sam Miles, board members and others applaud. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

By Shannon McFarlin

WENK/WTPR News Director

Paris, Tenn.-Meeting in a busy session Thursday night, the Henry County Schools board of education heard good news from Director of Schools Sam Miles, who reported the state’s annual Report Card for Tennessee’s schools showed that Henry County’s latest scores are very good, which he said represents “a lot of hard work. We have a lot to be proud of.”

The annual Report Card is a comprehensive showcase of state, district and school-level date for each school year. Henry County’s Report Card data can be viewed on the State Department of Education’s website at www.tn.gov/education/reportcard/2013.

Henry County’s Report Card shows great gains over recent years, according to Dr. Renee Wade, supervisor of K-8 instruction. Miles said, “I’m very happy with what we’ve been able to achieve. What we’re trying to do here is develop a process to look at continuous improvements and that has required a lot of work by the teachers and the principals. We have a lot to celebrate.”

A more detailed report on the Report Card data will be presented at the December meeting, he said.

Miles announced that Grove Librarian Amanda Mason was named Tennessee Electronic Library Trainer of the Year by the State Department of Education. Miles said Mason “is a good example of what we need in media specialists. They serve as a resource for teachers today and go above and beyond to provide teachers in the classroom with the information they need. Teachers are going outside the textbooks more and more.”

Board members heard a report on the Plus Endowment program, which each year provides grants for county teachers to fund projects for their classrooms.

Federal Projects/Public Relations Coordinator Susan Burton announced that Regena Lindsey, Henry School counselor, received the first William Atkinson grant, which totalled $1,775. Atkinson is a former director of schools, teacher and headed the Plus Endowment for many years and this year a grant was named in his honor.

Lindsey reported that with her grant money, Henry School will host an “Under the Dome” project in which an indoor 3D I-max theater will be set up under an inflatable dome in the gym all day December 2. All students in the school will participate on a rotation basis all day, she said.

New Plus Endowment Chairperson Susan Hayes said she was “very blessed to be asked to take over the leadership from Mr. Atkinson”. She noted that the program’s first year, there were five grants given out and this year there were 53 grants.

In other business:

--Miles said Verizon has asked for a lease agreement in which a Verizon tower would be set up in the high school area. More information will be presented later.

--The board approved a request from Lakewood Speech Team Director David Weatherly for a field trip to Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green for a tournament that he said will draw schools from all over the region and “will give us a good indication of how we will fare at nationals this year.”

--The board approved the following policies on second reading: nepotism, update of school board records and attendance.

--Miles reported discussions will begin December 16 on differentiated pay. He said he will report back to the board after each meeting.

--On second reading, the board approved an updated nepotism policy. Assistant Director of Schools Brian Norton said the policy was updated due to state law that states board members with family members in the system must declare their relationship before a vote.

--Norton also provided an update on the Olweus Bullying program. He said school personnel and resource officers have been retrained since Olweus requires schools to take a more proactive response in identifying students who have been bullied.

Former Obion Sheriff Nathan Cunningham Dies

Obion, Tenn.-Former Obion County Sheriff Nathan Cunningham, 83, Obion, died Thursday, November 14. He served as sheriff from 1972-1978 and 1982-1990. He also served as deputy sheriff, was a dozier operator and farmer. He was a former president of the Tennessee Sheriff's Association.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at First United Methodist Church of Obion. Cryer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

"Homemakers' Holiday" Continues Today

Paris, Tenn.-Ladies from Henry County's FCE groups greet visitors at the Homemakers' Holiday that continues today at the Enoch Building at the Henry County Fairgrounds. In photo are (left to right): Brenda Parker, Carol Bomar and Lynn Toombs.Today's hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with lunch served between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Plenty of baked goods, homemade gifts and other items are for sale. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

"Coats For Kids" is Underway

Union City, Tenn.-The Junior Auxiliary of Obion County is once again sponsoring its "Coats For Kids" program. If you have any jackets/coats that your kids are no longer using or needing and as long as they're in decent shape, you can donate them.

There is a drop-off box at Baptist Rehab, next to Healthquest on Reelfoot Avenue in Union City. All coats will be cleaned and given to children in need in Obion County.

The deadline to drop off your coats is Friday, November 22nd.

Nashville, Tenn.-Tennessee State Parks will offer winter rates for 360 cabins in 21 state parks throughout the state, along with individual rooms at the six state park inns, from November 15 through March 15.

With a Tennessee State Parks special winter discount, park visitors can stay at one of the state’s six state park inns for $60 a night (excluding tax). The inn discount may be used seven days a week and applies to both individuals and groups. Cabins ranging from premium to rustic are priced at two for one, Sunday through Thursday. Some holiday weeks are not included. At participating restaurants, guests can package a breakfast for two for an additional $10.

Paris Landing State Park and its cabins will be participating, as will Montgomery Bell in Dickson County and Nathan Bedford Forrest state park in Benton County.

Special winter rates are not valid with other discounts. For more info, call the state parks info line at 615-532-0001 or toll-free at 1-888-867-2757.

Youth Summit Set

Paris, Tenn.-Ladies With SWAG (Sisters With A Goal) will conduct a Youth Summit from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, November 16 at the Central Services building on Jones Bend Rd.

Speakers are to include Henry County Sheriff’s personnel on drugs and gangs, April Perry on attitude and behavior, Rikki Hill on the art of dance, and Barbara Kelly of the Henry County Health Department on teen pregnancy.

The event is for girls and boys aged 8-18. Lunch will be provided.

Thursday, November 14, 2013

“Junction” Theatrical Rollout Set for Paris, Murray and Martin

Tickets go on sale Monday

Actor Michael O'Keefe is shown in a scene from "Junction".

Paris, Tenn.-The multi-award-winning feature film “Junction” will play in Paris, Tenn., as well as Murray, Ky., and Martin, for a week beginning next Friday night, Nov 22, as part of a multi-city theatrical rollout. A special screening will be held in Paducah on November 26. The movie premiered in New York City recently.

Native Parisian Summer Crockett Moore will star in the movie and is one its producers. The movie is a thriller also starring Michael O’Keefe and Neal Bledsoe and has won 17 major film festival awards, including best director Tony Glazer.

Advance tickets go on sale Monday, November 18, at The Parisian Theater box office in Paris. A ticket stub from either film showing: 7 p.m. or the late show at 9:30 p.m. will get you into the after-party which is scheduled to go on until midnight.

The Paris-Henry County Heritage Center will host the red carpet champagne after-party. The after party will begin around 9 p.m. after the 7 p.m. showing and a brief q and a with movie principles.

Here is a film synopsis provided by the producers: In the idyllic upscale neighborhood of Verterra Hill, a privatized community full of manicured lawns and sprawling colonials, four strangers make a choice that sets in motion a series of events that will change their lives, the lives of some not-so-innocent homeowners and a troubled police force forever. On a road full of twists and turns each group will be forced to make a decision that will send them all careening headlong into a deadly confrontation. In a place where nothing is what it seems and no one is who they appear to be, only one thing is certain: all choices come with a price. (Junction is Rated: R).

Corn, Beans Yields Reported High This Year

By Shannon McFarlin

WENK/WTPR News Director

Paris and Union City, Tenn.-Both Henry and Obion Counties are reporting very high yields in both corn and soybeans this year, thanks to welcome rainfalls in the area.

Obion County UT Extension Office Director Tim Smith said, "Our farm yields have been very good this year. Our farm yields on corn and beans have been huge."

Some farm fields have not yielded as much as others, he said. "Some places had too much rain, but all in all we've had a good year. Our farmers are very satisfied with the yields they are getting."

Henry County Extension Office Agriculture Director Ranson Goodman said, "We're having a very good year here, the yields in soybeans are especially good. The corn got hit pretty hard here with the Southwest corn bore issues, but we've had above average yields, above our normal county averages." Goodman formerly worked at the Obion County extension office.

Goodman said, "Of course, not every field here is above the county averages this year, For some, the rainfalls we've had weren't good--some fields are tiled and have better drainage and some of our corn fields were hit by the corn bore, but overall, our fields have good yields this year."

Some farmers are still harvesting in the area, especially in soybeans.

Goodman said consumers may see lower prices as a result of the high yields. "It's based on supply and demand and the more supply we get, the more the prices may be going down."

Paris, Tenn.-Henry County Sheriff Monte Belew said the Deputies for the Hungry program is open for this year and is accepting donations of harvested deer every weekend for the remainder of November and December.

Belew said harvested deer can be brought to the sheriff's department every Saturday and Sunday through November and December and it will be processed and redistributed to the needy as a community giveaway later this year.

The giveaway dates will be announced later. The sheriff's department is located on Forrest Heights on the west side of Paris.

Henry County Men Sentenced After Guilty Pleas

Richard Glisson Jonathan Treece

Paris, Tenn.-Two men who were indicted on sex-related charges involving minors were sentenced in Henry County Circuit Court this week.

Richard Glisson, 52, 103 Hidden Acres Dr., Paris, was sentenced to serve six years in the state prison system after he issued an Alford plea on an amended charge of criminal attempt to commit aggravated sexual battery. Under an Alford plea, a defendant continues to assert his or her innocence but admits that sufficient evidence exists to convince a judge or jury of guilt.

Glisson had originally been arrested on a charge of rape of a girl under 13.

Judge Donald Parish ordered Glisson’s sentence split this way: 133 days in continuous confinement and the balance on supervised probation.

Jonathan Clayton Treece, 30, 235 Holiday Acres Dr., Springville, pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false police report and four counts of restrictions on showings of pornographic movies or pictures in public.

Treece was originally charged with sexual exploitation of a minor.

On the false reporting charge, Treece was sentenced to four years in state prison. On the showing charges, he was sentenced to 11 months and 29 days in the county jail and the sentences will be served on supervised probation.

Christmas in Paris This Weekend

Paris, Tenn.-The 6th Annual Christmas in Paris will be held this Saturday and Sunday at the Paris Convention Center. The event will feature 50 plus vendors including Scentsy, Wags Barkery, Sierra Lotus Design, State Line Ranch and home, Butterbean and Bubbs, Tupperware, Gio-Bella’s Sweet Shoppe, Whitlock Pottery, Pampered Chef, Plexus Slim, Tree of Life Massage, Ducks Dogs and Frogs Custom Cakes, The Ampersand and many more.

To be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The Convention Center is behind the Quality Inn on E. Wood Street, Paris.

Baptist Hospital Girls Day Out Set

Union City, Tenn.-Baptist Memorial Hospital is hosting a free Girls Day Out set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, November 16, at Discovery Park of America. The event focuses on shopping, chocolate and taking care of families and includes a physician meet and greet, girly treats and a chocolate fountain and a shopping extravaganza with booths from numerous local businesses.

Pancake Day is Saturday

Union City, Tenn.-The second annual Myrtle Harton Pancake Day is set for 7 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 16 at the Union City Middle School. It's all you can eat for $5 and the event is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club. Tickets are available at the door or from any Kiwanis member.

Upcoming Events at W.G. Rhea Library

Paris, Tenn.-Three events are coming up this weekend and Monday at the W.G. Rhea Public Library.

On Saturday, November 16 from 1-4 p.m. – International Games Day – Scrabble Tournament, Xbox 360 gaming, Bingo! and a movie (Hunger Games!).

Also on Saturday, November 16 from 6-9 p.m. – Hunger Games Premiere Party – The library will celebrate the upcoming release of “Catching Fire” with a mock Hunger Games including a cornucopia scavenger hunt and more! Of course we’ll watch “Hunger Games” the movie too!

And on Monday, November 18 from 4 -5 p.m. - Thanksgiving Crafts– Ages 7-12 can make bottle top napkin rings for free.

Registration for all by calling W.G. Rhea Library Circulation Desk at 642-1702.

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Stewart County Students Hospitalized After Ingesting Seeds

Hawaiian Baby Woodrose Seeds

Dover, Tenn.-Five students from Stewart County High School have been taken to the hospitalafter they reportedly took Hawaiian Baby Woodrose Seeds. The seeds are hallucinogenics and reportedly cause similar side effects to LSD.

According to a press release from the Stewart County Sheriff's Department, several students at Stewart County High School are receiving treatment after they admitted to ingesting hallucinogenic seeds Wednesday at school. As many as 20 students may be involved, and five of the students were transported to Gateway Medical Center.

School officials said the students took what are called Hawaiian Baby Wood Rose seeds. Stewart County Director of Schools Dr. Phillip Wallace said officials suspect the students obtained the seeds off the Internet. Wallace said one student told a parent that he or she the seeds, so the parent came to the school and alerted school leaders. Around the same time, another student came to the office with a similar report, according to the press release.

"Today at about 12 o'clock, a student came to the principal and told the principal that they were seeing some strange behavior from some of the other students, so Mr. [Mike] Craig, our principal, began to investigate, looking into it, and he asked any students with the symptoms to come to the office. And that's kind of where we are now," Wallace said.

Stewart County officials say parents should look for the following warning signs in their children: euphoria, hallucinations, agitation, abdominal pains and vomiting.They advise parents who notice their children exhibiting any of these symptoms to take their child to a doctor or healthcare professional immediately.

Memorial for Crawford is Set

Paris, Tenn.-The memorial for former Paris Mayor Larry Crawford has been set for 11 a.m. Saturday at First United Methodist Church in Paris. Crawford died Friday and his obituary was published on Saturday on this website. He was also a businessman and CEO for the Henry County Alliance. Brummitt-McKenzie Funeral Home has charge of arrangements.

Former Court Clerk Sentenced to Jail

Deanna Treece

Paris, Tenn.-Former Henry County General Sessions Court Clerk Deanna Treece of Springville was sentenced Tuesday to three years in jail for the theft of some $29,000 from the court.

Henry County Circuit Court Judge Donald Parish sentenced Treece to serve 90 days in the county jail and the balance of the sentence to be served in community corrections.

Treece had pleaded no contest at an earlier court appearance. Part of the negotiated plea agreement was the expectation by the defense that the entire sentence be served in community corrections, but Judge Parish did impose the 90-day jail term.

Treece was arrested by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation earlier this year after she was indicted by a Henry County Grand Jury. An audit by the state comptroller’s office had found approximately $29,000 missing between 2007 and 2011.

At Tuesday’s hearing, Treece was represented by Paris Attorney Robert Hawley. Appearing for the state was Assistant District Attorney Paul Hessing.

I-69 Public Comments Sought

Nashville, Tenn.-The Tennessee Department of Transportation has issued a public notice for the preparation of a construction re-evaluation of a project that will construct a four-lane divided roadway (Interstate 69) that will begin .2 miles south of U.S. 51 and extend to .2 miles south of State Route 5. Two interchanges are proposed for the project, one at U.S. 51 and the other at State Route 184.

TDOT is soliciting public comment. Public hearings were held September 17 and 18. After the hearings TDOT concluded the project limits and study area necessary for this portion of the project are compatible with study areas and no significant land use changes or development had occurred within the project limits.

Paris, Tenn.-Not guilty pleas were issued Tuesday by Henry County Circuit Court defendants who had been indicted by the Henry County Grand Jury last week.

Pleading not guilty at their initial hearings were:

--John Childress of Camden, charged with first-degree murder for allegedly killing his father Timothy Childress in Henry County on June 1. Childress is being held on $1 million bond.

--Robert Watts of Paris, charged with accessory after the fact for assisting John Childress after the elder Childress’ death.

--Niles Mueller, Cottage Grove, charged with child abuse.

Bonds Set for Two Charged in Bar Fight Death

Union City, Tenn- Two Dyersburg men arrested for involvement in the death of an Obion County man at a local bar Saturday night appeared in Obion County Circuit Court Tuesday for their initial appearances.

Derek Jones was charged with reckless homicide and Joseph Rogers with reckless endangerment for their part in the death of David McBride, 55, of Union City. Investigators with the Obion County Sheriff’s Department said McBride was killed when a fight broke out between several people at Hobbies 22 Club in Union City. The fight started inside and spilled outside. According to a press release issued Tuesday by the sheriff’s department, McBride likely died of blunt force trauma to the head.

Jones’ bond was set at $30,000, and Rogers’ bond was set for $10,000.

Both Jones and Rogers are scheduled to appear in court on January 9.

Assistant Restaurant Manager Charged in Theft

Tina Allen

Paris, Tenn.-An assistant manager at the Tyson Ave. Subway sandwich shop was arrested Tuesday morning by the Paris Police Department for theft and filing a false police report after she called police to report the store had been robbed.

Arrested was Tina Allen, 43, of 1912 Swor Still Rd., Buchanan. According to the police report, Allen called police shortly before 8 a.m. to report a robbery and gave a description of the robber.

Police found the missing $1,500 in Allen’s car.

Bond of $12,500 was set for her and she will make her first appearance in Henry County General Sessions Court on Thursday.

First United Methodist in Camden Celebrates 175 Years

Camden, Tenn.-The First United Methodist Church in Camden will celebrate a milestone this Sunday, November 17, observing the church’s 175 years of service. Church leaders invite the public to join them for the celebration which begins at 10 a.m. Former Pastor Roger Hopson will be guest speaker.

Other former pastors will be present and a catered meal will follow.

The first organization of Methodists for Camden was organized in 1838 and it was part of a large circuit until 1898-1899, when it joined with Cowell’s Chapel. In 1900, Camden received its first full-time pastor with J.M. Pickens.

Over the years, the church has met in various locations, including the courthouse. Groundbreaking for the present sanctuary was held August 10, 1975. In 2002, a community life center opened which includes a full-size gym, kitchen, classrooms and a thrift shop that serves Camden.

Information on the church and its programs can be found on its website at http://www.camdenfirstumc.org.

TDOT Announces Projects for December Bid-Letting

Nashville, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has released the projects for which it will accept bids on December 6, 2013.

TDOT will open bids on a total of 43 contracts, including 62 projects in 86 counties. TDOT will initiate resurfacing projects on several Tennessee interstate corridors, including I-75 in Campbell and Knox Counties and I-65 in Maury County. Bids will also be received on a number of maintenance projects such as guardrail repair and installation, concrete repair, and drain cleaning.

Projects in the local area include:

Guardrail work on Interstates and state routes in several counties, including Houston and Stewart. Work to be completed by June 2015.

Safety improvements on roads in Stewart, Houston and Dickson Counties. Work to be completed by May 2014.

Sweeping and drain cleaning on various Interstates and state roads in several counties, including Obion, Henry, Weakley, Benton, Carroll, Dyer and Gibson Counties. Work to be completed by February 28, 2015.

On-call concrete pavement repairs in several counties, including Obion, Carroll, Dyer, Benton and Weakley Co. Work to be completed by March 31, 2015.

The December Bid Letting also includes the construction of a diverging diamond interchange on I-40 at SR 66 in Sevier County, the widening of US 231 and US 41A in Bedford County, safety and ramp improvements on I-65 just north of downtown Nashville, and the rehabilitation of two bridges over the Harpeth River on I-40 in Cheatham County.

TDOT will also initiate safety improvement projects on various state and local routes in 16 counties across the state.

Bids on all projects must be received electronically by 10:00 a.m. CDT on December 6, 2013. TDOT has 30 days to analyze each bid and award a contract to the lowest responsible bidder. Bids may be rejected due to a number of factors.

For a complete list of projects featured in the December 6, 2013 bid letting, please visit

Paris, Tenn.-Meeting in regular session Tuesday night, the Henry County Highway Department (road board) approved the purchase of a new pickup truck from the James Corlew dealership in Clarksville for $18,644.

Corlew’s bid was one of three the board reviewed and although it was not the lowest, it was considered the best in that it contained all the specifications presented in the bid requirements and had the best warranty agreement. The bid agreement also included free oil change for a year.

The other two bids were from Joe Mahan Ford in Paris and Golden Circle in Jackson.

The board also discussed another item that has been on the agenda previously, the possible purchase of an excavator. As requested by board members last month, different companies brought excavators to the highway department to demonstrate for local personnel. Road Board Administrative Assistant Diane Mallard said the specifications for the equipment will be reviewed by the board next month.

The board approved a 30-day work plan which includes numerous projects for the road crews, including grading and graveling roads, patching and bush hogging roads and fixing culverts on Dale Cemetery Road and Jones Bend Road. In the Buchanan area, limbs need to be cut back; a culvert is falling in on Port Road, on India Rd., roots need to be cut out of the road and on Moore Lane, a stop sign was reported down. A curve needs to be widened on Herrondale West Rd.

October wages and expenses were approved totaling $310,329.97.

Cottage Grove Council Eyes Permanent Home

Cottage Grove, Tenn.-The Cottage Grove Legislative council held a routine session Tuesday night. Council is continuing to meet in its temporary home at the Cottage Grove Baptist Church fellowship hall while a room Cottage Grove School is being prepared as the future home for the city hall office.

Mayor Waddey suggested the council inspect the room at the school so that a decision could be made on the office’s future location.

Waddey also reported on the city’s recycling program “Family Night” at which 25-30 people were present at Cardinal Park and the movie “Casper” was shown. He said the “Family Night” was a way for the city to thank its citizens for its good participation in the curbside recycling program. Popcorn and hot chocolate was served.

Council member John Weiher complimented Tammy Wood on placing Christmas decorations around the city.

he October financial report included Revenues of $1318.09 and Expenses of $624.01.

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Men Charged in Bar Fight Death to be Arraigned Today

Derek Jones Joseph Rogers

Union City, Tenn.-The two Dyersburg men charged in connection with the death of a Union City man at a bar Saturday night will be arraigned today in Obion County General Sessions Court.

Derek Kirk Jones, 34, of 4618 Sorrell Chappell Rd. of Dyersburg, has been charged with reckless homicide. Joseph Wayne Rogers, 27, of 396 Jenkensville-Jamestown Rd., Dyersburg, has been charged with reckless endangerment. Both remain in the Obion County Jail.

The victim David Thomas McBride, 55, Union City, died from blunt trauma received to the head, according to Obion County Sheriff Jerry Vastbinder. According to a press release issued by Vastbinder today, a fight broke out between several people at Hobbies’ 22 Club at 1628 West Highway 22, located between Union City and Reelfoot Lake.

The fight started inside the bar around 11 p.m. and escalated into the parking lot of the bar. As the fight progressed, several of the bar patrons became involved in the confrontation outside, according to the press release.

McBride was standing outside watching the fight and later became involved. He was flipped during the confrontation and received the head injury.

He was transported by ambulance to Baptist Memorial Hospital, union City, where he was pronounced dead.

The arraignments of Jones and Rogers are set for 1 p.m. today.

Henry County Students Honor Veterans, Past and Present

Paris, Tenn.-The Henry County Sheriff's Office honor guard, top photo, participated in the Veterans Day program at Grove School in Paris Monday. Bottom photo shows Bo Caldwell, who was the featured speaker at the program. Schools in the Henry County school district conducted programs at the individual schools honoring the nation's veterans. (Photos by Michele Webb).

Arrest Made in UTM Hazing Accident

Martin, Tenn.-The Tennessee Highway Patrol has arrested a man for vehicular assault after a hazing incident led to an injury to a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity house on the University of Tennessee-Martin campus.

Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers say that the accident could cost the new recruit his eye. According to the patrol, the victim was walking along Parkers Levy Rd. when he was hit by a side mirror of a full-size pickup truck.

The driver was Alex McAlexander, who is not a UTM student nor a member of the fraternity. He was released after posting $25,000 bond.

The accident happened when the victim and other new recruits were allegedly blindfolded and dropped off on the county roads by fraternity members and told to fend for themselves.

Copper Tubing, Coil Stolen from Henry County Church

Paris, Tenn.-Copper tubing and coil from three heating and air conditioning units were stolen from the historic Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Paris sometime over the past month.

Paris Police are investigating the theft, but so far have no suspects. Rev. Andre Richardson, pastor at the church, said the theft was discovered Friday, November 8. “It happened sometime between October 19 and Friday,” he said.

The church was built in 1916 and the church was organized by the late Pastors C.J. Johnson and George Woodson. Rev. Johnson was the father of the late Mordecai Johnson of Paris, who was a former President of Howard University.

The three units are behind the building and that is why the thieves were able to gut them, Richardson said. “They were able to take time with it because of the positioning of the church.”

This is the first time Mt. Zion has been hit by thieves in recent years, he said. “A lot of the other churches, like Progressive Baptist and some other churches here, have had their heating and air conditioning units hit” by copper thieves “but this is the first time for Mt. Zion.”

Due to the condition of the building, the Mt. Zion congregation holds its services at the Krider Performing Arts Center (KPAC) in Paris, but the choir, youth and dance groups meet in the church building.

Richardson said he was told by a technician that checked the units that the church may as well replace the units altogether, which would cost $16,000.

Anyone with information on the thefts can email Richardson at mtzionrev@aol.com or call the Paris Police Department at 642-2424.

Crowds Line Up for Discovery Park of America

Union City, Tenn- Officials at Discovery Park of America in Union City, report that the first two weekends since its opening have been a huge success.

Over 9,700 people have visited the park from as far away as New York, Colorado and Utah in that time frame. “The vast majority of our guests have come from Tennessee and Kentucky,” Marketing Director Mary Nita Bondurant said. “But we have had people from Ohio, Indiana, Mississippi, South Dakota, Illinois, Missouri, Texas and Louisiana.”

CEO Jim Rippy said, “The only problem is that it takes awhile for people who want to buy an annual membership to get through the line.” Admissions officials report that people who already had their annual membership pass really didn’t have to wait very long.

“It was just the people who wanted to purchase an annual membership. That process takes a few minutes, so those lines were a little slower, “ Rippy said. “Most people were able to get in Discovery Center in less than an hour on our busiest day, which was Saturday,” officials reported. “And, we are working to shorten that length of time.”

In order to help speed up admission into the park, officials are encouraging everyone who can to stop by Discovery Center during the week to purchase an annual membership or ticket for the weekend. “We will have employees working the crowd this weekend,” Rippy said. People who already have a ticket or an annual membership will be moved to a faster line.”

Docents, floor leaders and other park officials reported that visitors comments have been very positive and encouraging. Polly Brasher, Director of Education, said that everyone she talked to had said that, “it was worth the wait.”

Discovery Park of America is a 50-acre educational tourism attraction featuring a 100,000 square foot learning center in Union City, TN. It opened on November 1st of this year. For more information about the park, you can visit the website at www.discoveryparkofamerica.com.

Discovery Park of America is open 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. The park is closed on Mondays.

Paris, Tenn.-If you like casseroles, homemade baked goods and more, the best place to find them this week is at the Homemakers' Holiday, an annual event sponsored by the Henry County UT Extension office's Family and Community Education Clubs.

The event will be held at the Henry County Fairgrounds Enoch Building from 3-6 p.m. Thursday, November 14, and from 9 a.m. -2 p.m. Friday, November 15.

Free admission and lunch will be served from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday. $5 will include soup or chili and sandwiches.

HCMC received one Prism award and four Citation of Excellence awards. The Prism was received for HCMC’s external publication, Health in Focus. The external publication award for Health In Focus magazine showcased four of our publications with focus on the newest service lines, healthcare heroes, and personal stories of patients. The judges especially liked the results of our readers’ survey and return on investment studies.

Additionally, HCMC received four Citation of Excellence awards for the following submissions: the HCMCDiagnosticCenter advertising campaign, the HCMCDiagnosticCenter outdoor paid advertising, the Pre-Admission Testing education booklet for internal public relations program, and the Mammothon marketing program.

“The Marketing team at HCMC is truly honored to receive these awards for the work we did in 2012-2013,”according to Marketing Director Tory Daughrity. “Our focus this past year has been on the new DiagnosticCenter and I believe our marketing efforts truly paid off by showcasing the facility and growing two of the major imaging services offered at the new facility, MRI and mammography.”

Daughrity received the Lamar Jackson Distinguished Service Award at the awards dinner. It is given to a member of the Society who has demonstrated outstanding service to the Society and his or her organization during the past calendar year Daughrity serves on the board of TSHMPR and held the position of Immediate Past President for 2013-2013, planning the annual TSHMPR conference.

Stewart County Library Needs Milk Jugs

Dover, Tenn.-The Stewart County Library in Dover reports it is planning a project and need the public’s help. Librarians report they need one gallon clear milk jugs, empty and cleaned with the top still on. They have a goal of 150-200 and need them by November 15. They said if you could bring them to the library, they would be “happy, happy”.

Henry County Dems to Meet

Paris, Tenn.-The Henry County Democratic Party will hold its monthly meeting at 6 p.m. at city hall. Party Chair Wes Bradley will host the meeting. There will be no Henry County Democratic Women’s meeting in November.

Houston County Observes Veterans Day

Erin, Tenn.-A crowd of some 50 people gathered at the Houston County Courthouse on Monday for the annual Veterans Day observance.

The ceremony includes a lowering of the flag on the court square and a 21-gun salute by local veterans’ honor guard and it is always held at the county’s granite veterans’ memorial.

The ceremony was conducted by the Rev. Paul Moody

Monday, November 11, 2013

Two Charged in Bar Fight Death

Union City, Tenn.-An Obion County man lost his life as a result of a fight outside the 22 Club in the Clayton community on Old Lake Rd. near Union City early Sunday morning. David McBride, 55, died of head injuries when he was reportedly thrown head first to the ground. A fight apparently began inside the club and continued outside.

Witnesses told investigating officers that McBride was not involved in the fight, but was actually trying to break it up when he was injured.

Obion County Sheriff Jerry Vastbinder said Joseph Rogers and Derrick Jones, both of Dyersburg, were charged. Jones is charged with reckless homicide and Rogers is charged with firing a gun.

Paris, Tenn.-The first annual Inman School Glow Run was an unqualified success for the school Saturday evening, with 147 runners in attendance--in a variety of day-glo headgear, necklaces and clothing. The run moved from the school over the steep hills of Grove Tower.

LuAnne Taylor of Inman School said plans are already underway for the race next year.

In the 5K, overall female was Gracie Pendleton and overall male winner was Cole David. Winning brightest runners was the Harper Family.

Mike Bell gives directions to the runners before the race. (McFarlin photo).

Randy and Denise Cate and Kim and Karsyn Dempsy get ready for the race. (McFarlin photo).

Lakewood Speech Team Excels at Murray Invitational

Lakewood Speech Team shows off its hardware. (Submitted photo).

Murray, Tenn.-The Lakewood Middle School Speech Team competed in Murray High School’s “Tiger-Town” Middle School Invitational in Kentucky over the weekend and placed second overall, with six first place winners, according to Coach David Weatherly.

Buchanan, Tenn.-The Henry County Medical Center Care Van will be at Paris Landing Community Center for a community health screening from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 12.

The center is at 15616, Suite A, Highway 79N. The screening will include free finger stick blood sugars and blood pressures. Finger stick total cholesterol tets will be offered for a fee of $3 or a lipid panel for $10. Results available at time of screening. Fasting for eight hours is required for accurate result.

Masquerade Jewelry Sale Returns to HCMC This Week

Paris, Tenn.- The “Masquerade Experience the Frenzy Jewelry and Accessories Sale” will be back just in time for Christmas. The two-day event is set for Thursday and Friday, November 14 and 15 at Henry County Medical Center.

The sale has become a popular event at the hospital each year and is a fundraiser for the hospital auxiliary.

The company caters only to hospital auxiliary groups across the south and it showcases large volumes of accessories. Masquerade will have many new items in stock this year including purses, wallets, jewelry, scarves, key chains, college sports memorabilia, and more.

“In years past, this has been a great fundraiser for the Auxiliary, which in turn helps when we are ready to give our scholarships to those seeking a career in health care,” according to Joan Shankle, Treasurer and Gift Shop Manager of the HCMC Auxiliary. “This is our primary fundraiser each year and with the help of these sales, the HCMC Auxiliary is able to give more than one scholarship each academic year.”

The sale will be held in HCMC Classrooms 2 & 3. Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 14 and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, November 15. Cash and credit cards are accepted and 20% of all sales go to the hospital’s Auxiliary.

Sunday, November 10, 2013

Veterans are Remembered with Parade

The ladies of the AMVETS auxiliary get into the spirit. (Shannon McFarlin photos).

Paris, Tenn.-A good-sized crowd was on hand for the 7th annual Veterans Day Parade in Paris Saturday morning. The parade got off to a rousing start with the Henry County High School Marching Patriots playing patriotic songs. Some 30 entries participated in the parade, including the local veterans’ organizations, AMVETS auxiliary, local law enforcement and fire departments and Cub Scout troop 222.

Grand Marshal of the parade was Johnny Gibson of Springville. Gibson is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who enlisted in the Corps in 1941 and served as part of the 2nd Battalion 5th Marines in Guadalcanal and Leleliu. After discharge from the military in 1945, he worked as a federal and state game warden and operated his own fishing and hunting guide service on Kentucky Lake for many years.

Among those watching the parade were Jerry Bomar and his grandchildren Miles and Marly Latta.

Grand Marshal of the parade Johnny Gibson.

The Henry County High School Marching Patriots played patriotic songs.

Hazing Draws Suspension for UT-Martin Fraternity

Investigation After Student Hit by Vehicle

Martin, Tenn.-The Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity chapter at the University of Tennessee at Martin has been placed on interim suspension by the university. The interim suspension, announced Friday afternoon, is effective immediately and will remain in effect until the university completes an investigation of an alleged hazing incident.

A vehicle struck a member of the fall 2013 pledge class early Thursday morning while the individual walked along a rural road in Weakley County. The Tennessee Highway Patrol and the university’s Office of Greek Life and Office of Student Conduct are investigating the incident.

Interim suspension means the fraternity must cease all functions until the university investigation is complete. The Alpha Tau Omega National Fraternity also has ordered the immediate suspension of chapter operations until its own investigation is complete.

Saturday, November 9, 2013

Former Paris Mayor Larry Crawford Dies

Paris, Tenn.-Former Paris Mayor Larry Crawford died Friday at his home. Brummitt-McKenzie Funeral Home in McKenzie is in charge of arrangements and a memorial service will be announced at a later time.

Crawford was a retired businessman and was CEO of the Henry County Alliance.

He was born February 8, 1943, in Jackson. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Deck Crawford of Paris; one daughter, Kim (Sam) Cox of Paris; one son, David Crawford, and two grandchildren, Wesley and Olivia Cox. He was preceded in death by his brother, Jerome Crawford.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorials be made to the charity of your choice. For more information call 731-352-2222 or visit the funeral home website at http://www.brummittmckenziefuneralhome.com.

HCMC Event to Educate on Health Insurance Marketplace

Paris, Tenn. – HenryCountyMedicalCenter is joining 70 other Spirit of Women hospitals across the country and hosting a whimsical and information-filled event called An Enchanting Affair. On Thursday, November 14, the hospital will welcome women and their families to this event that will educate them on the Health Insurance Marketplace. This informative event is designed to move women and their families towards better overall health and vibrant living by providing education to navigate the Health Insurance Marketplace and the new benefits of insurance coverage.

An Enchanting Affair is Spirit of Women’s fall signature event and has been educating women for 8 years and gaining momentum. The host hospitals, in cities all over the US, are working toward the same goal – inspiring and empowering women and their families to get involved in their healthcare.

Although the primary goal of An Enchanting Affair is to educate women about making informed decisions about their health, it is the action steps following the event that are the real first steps on their journey to good health. In 2012, 45 percent of attendees made an appointment with a healthcare provider and 70 percent said that they were going to make a lifestyle changes as a result of what they learned.

The free event is on Thursday, November 14 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Henry County Fairgrounds Commercial Building. At the event, participants can learn how to navigate the Health Insurance Marketplace. Speakers will be on hand and all those attending will receive goodie bags and Spirit of Women members will receive a special gift. Food will be provided by Cindy's Catering.

Speakers for the event are as follows:

4 p.m.--Overview of Health Insurance Marketplace; 5 p.m. Health Insurance Eligibility; 6 p.m. Health in Action, Women and Affordable Care Act. The final program will be presented by Amy Odom, Tina Umstead and Angie Dotson, all of HCMC.

If you are an insurance broker or an organization that would like to be a part of this great event, please contact us at 731-644-8266.

For more information on the event or the Health Insurance Marketplace, call 731-644-3463 or go to our website at www.hcmc-tn.org

Second Round High School Football Match-Ups Announced

Second round match-ups in the high school football playoffs have been announced.

Henry County will face Memphis East at home at Patriot Stadium in Class 5A.

McKenzie, Tenn.-Bethel University’s Renaissance Program has announced the schedule for 2013 “Christmas with Renaissance”.

“Christmas with Renaissance” is an annual celebration that showcases the talents of the Renaissance Program at Bethel University. This “fun for the whole family” performance will boast a wide variety of genres of music all focused on the Christmas theme. The concert will feature all aspects of Renaissance including the Renaissance Choir, The Renaissance Quartet, Vocal Authority, Renaissance Theatre, The Renaissance Bluegrass Band, and Renaissance Revolution.

Performances are November 22 and 23 at the Bethel Performing Arts Center and December 6and 7at the Dickey Fine Arts Building, both in McKenzie, Tenn. All shows start at 7 pm with 2 pm Matinees on November 23 and December 7. Tickets are $10 Adults and $5 Children and can be purchased at the Bethel University Bookstore. To order tickets through will-call, contact the Bookstore at 731-352-4094.

This year the group has added another performance on November 24 at the acclaimed Tennessee Performing Arts Center in Nashville, TN. This performance will begin at 7 pm. Tickets to the TPAC Performance will only be sold through the TPAC Box Office. That number is 615-782-4040 or purchase them online at tpac.org. Those tickets are reserved seating for $15 each. Groups of 10 or more can contact the TPAC Groups Sales 615-782-4060 for a discounted ticket price.

As in the past, the group anticipates sold out crowds for each performance.

Chimes for Charity Taking Applications

Union City, Tenn.-The Chimes for Charity office is now taking applications, from 9 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday. If no one is in the office, they ask you to leave your name and phone and your call will be returned.

Deadline for submitting names for baskets is noon Tuesday, November 26. The goal this year is $55,000 and a basket is $75.00 Donations may be mailed to Chimes for Charity, PO Box 661, Union City, TN 38261

In its 79th year, Chimes for Charity is the Christmas program of the Union City Jaycees and Jaycettes and it helps less fortunate families in Obion County at Christmas. The Jaycees deliver baskets on Christmas Eve that contain food and toys. The program also includes a childrens' shopping tour at Wal-Mart at which the children can buy clothes.

The annual Chimes for Charity radio appeal airs on WENK-AM for four nights in early December and raises money for the program. This year it will be held Monday, December 2 through Thursday, December 5, from 6-7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church.

ROTC at UT-Martin Remains Open

Martin, Tenn.-The U.S. Army announced Wednesday it has suspended the closure of 12 student Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) programs, which includes the program at the University of Tennessee at Martin. Members of Congress were notified along with officials at the affected universities.

According to the notification, the Army will now review the criteria used for the recommended closures. Once the review is complete, the Army will reassess all student ROTC programs nationwide and “develop a formal 24-month probationary program for schools failing to meet the evaluation criteria.” Programs not meeting the criteria by the end of the first year will receive one year’s notice of intent to close the unit.

Programs that show improvement or meet criteria will receive a second year of probation, and at the end of the 24 months, schools retained for a second year will be re-evaluated.

UT Martin in October that its program was among 13 in the nation scheduled for closure in 2015. Other Tennessee universities on the list were East Tennessee State University in Johnson City and Tennessee Tech University in Cookeville.

UT Martin Chancellor Dr. Tom Rakes said, “We’re grateful to our elected officials and to the Army for suspending the closure of our program. We will work hard to meet the Army’s criteria for keeping the program open.”

The university’s military science program, of which ROTC is a part, includes Jackson state Community College, Lane College, Freed-Hardeman University, Bethel University and Union university.

Paris, Tenn.-With its 52-8 victory over Kenwood Friday night, the Henry County Patriots move on to the second round of the high school football playoffs. Henry County's next opponent will be announced Saturday morning at these websites: http://www.tssaa.org or http://www.coachT.com. Henry County will play next Friday night at Patriot stadium.

Finally! Gas hits 2.99 in Paris

Paris, Tenn.-Gas prices--at at least one gas station--are finally below $3 a gallon in Paris. Gas prices at Swifty's gas station on Mineral Wells Ave. were listed at $2.99 Friday. We realize that's only one cent below $3, but still... (Shannon McFarlin photo).

St. John's Withdraws from Participation in Telethon of Stars

By Shannon McFarlin

WENK/WTPR News Director

Paducah, Tenn.-St. John’s Community Services (formerly Community Development Services), headquartered in Martin, will not be participating in this year’s 57th Annual Telethon of Stars November 9 and 10, but Telethon organizers say the money raised for West Tennessee will be given to West Tennessee, as it has in the past.

WPSD-TV Producer Bob Crosno said Friday morning the money raised for West Tennessee in the Telethon will be given to a still unnamed-West Tennessee agency.

St. John’s CEO Tom Wilds explained that his agency withdrew from the Telethon because it was “more cost-efficient for us not to participate. It was a heart-breaking decision for us. We didn’t want to do that. We know a lot of people put a lot of effort into this and it’s a big part of the local culture, but it just didn’t make sense for us financially.”

Wilds said St. John’s took over from Community Development Services (CDS) because CDS “was failing financially and the State Commissioner asked providers to consider stepping up to help CDS. We were one of several agencies that were interested in doing something to help. We’ve been in the Memphis-Jackson area for at least ten years.”

St. John’s has a lengthy history that dates back to 1868, he said. “We get our name from St. John’s Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. and we’re one of the oldest charities in the United States to serve special needs.”

In the late 1990s, the agency began to expand into other states, including Tennessee, he said.

St. John’s offers an “array of services,” he said, “and we do a lot of advocacy work” and one of the main responsibilities it had when it took over for CDS was “to look at ways to make the finances here stable.”

Once St. John’s began looking into the requirements of participating in the Telethon, he said, they realized that the monies raised in the Telethon had dramatically decreased and that the community wasn’t giving as much to it.

“Also, we found out there were fixed costs associated with it, including rent that is charged and we determined that the Telethon actually was costing 29 percent overhead for the funds raised,” Wilds said. “As it turned out the money that was raised for us wouldn’t have covered our costs to hire a half-time administrator to help us with it.”

Last Day to Vote for Baptist Health Pink Glove Video

Union City, Tenn.-Baptist Health officials say they appreciate your votes since Oct.25 for its video in the national Pink Glove Dance breast cancer awareness contest. The local video has been in 4th place among 106 entries throughout much of the two-week voting period, and it needs a final push today to move it into 3rd place to bring home prize money to the Kentucky Cancer Program’s Horses and Hope mammography service.

They ask everyone to Please VOTE TODAY from each of your e-mail accounts before the contest ends at midnight.

The Web site isn’t showing vote totals today, so the winners will be a surprise when announced Nov. 15. With more votes today and sharing among friends, the local video could still finish higher.

Ticket Info for Tonight's HCHS Patriots' Game

Paris, Tenn.-Henry County High School officials have released the following information: Tickets for the playoff game tonight against Kenwood are $8. Season passes have expired. A limited number of handicapped parking spaces are behind Patriot Stadium. Please carpool, arrive early, & pay for your entire party with exact change. This will make things run more smoothly & quickly so fans can be in the stadium prior to kick-off at 7p.m. Gates will open at 4:30.

Huge Turnout for Flapjack Fundraiser

Paris, Tenn.-Large crowds turned out all day Thursday for the Flapjack Fundraiser for the Prevention of Child Abuse (formerly Kiwanis Pancake Day) held at the First United Methodist Church in Paris. Taking their turn at the historic griddle which had always been used for the Kiwanis Pancake Days are: (left to right) Attorney Shon Johnson, Chief Deputy Randy Gean, Sheriff Monte Belew and Captain Damon Lowe, who said they received on-the-job training from Kiwanis members in how to navigate the griddle earlier. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Paris, Tenn.-At a busy regular session Thursday night, the Paris City Commission encouraged local citizens to shop local over the holidays, heard about personnel changes in the Parks Department and looked ahead to possible projects to enhance sidewalks and lighting on Veterans Drive to Mineral Walls Avenue. Additionally, the panel renewed the city fire department’s mutual aid agreement with Murray, Ky., and approved a resolution issuing revenue bonds for planned improvements to Belmont Lodge and Colony Square Apartments, after City Manager Carl Holder assured the members that the bond issue would not impact the city of Paris.

At the outset of the meeting, Commissioner Gayle Griffith pointed to his “Be Local, Buy Local” t-shirt and encouraged the public to do just that. The ‘Buy Local’ campaign is being pushed by a committee of the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce and the t-shirts are available for purchase by the public (we published an article about the campaign and t-shirts on Wednesday on our website).

Commissioner Carlton Gerrell said his family’s goal this holiday season is to purchase 100 percent of its gifts at local businesses, but noted the campaign ‘is two-fold; local businesses need to do their part and offer a good selection of products at a reasonable price so that local citizens stay here for their shopping.”

Finance Director Kim Foster echoed those sentiments in her report. Unfortunately, Kim Foster said, “the slightly positive trend” shown in the previous report “did not hold up” for the current financial report. “We’re down 3 ½ percent over last year”.

Foster said, “We are hoping that people will shop local over the holidays and we applaud the campaign to raise awareness.” City finances are “holding our own right now. We’re doing good, but wish it was a bit better.”

Holder announced long-time employee Larry Brannon is retiring as Parks Maintenance Supervisor in December and he is being replaced internally, which will create additional openings in the parks department.

Holder said he is shifting some of the records-keeping functions of the supervisor to a reactivated position of administrative assistant for the parks and Civic Center, which will be funded as a full-time position.

In other business:

--The panel renewed the city’s Mutual Aid Fire Agreement with the city of Murray so that it’s current.

--The commission approved the issuance of revenue bonds overseen by Sevier County not to exceed $41 million as requested by Belmont Lodge and Colony Square Apartments. Holder emphasized that Belmont Lodge is borrowing the funds through Sevier County “and in no way does the city of Paris have fiscal liability by doing this.” It is his understanding, he said, that Belmont Lodge intends to spend some $3 to upgrade its apartments and motel, local on N. Market St.

--Holder said the Federal Highway Administration has announced the relase of a federal program known as the Multi-Modal Transportation grant. He said the thrust of the program is linking various forms of transportation together (walking and buses, autos and buses, etc). The funding is 95-5 percent federal to local match.

He initially intended to ask for authorization for Mayor Sam Tharpe to sign an application which would propose construction of a sidewalk from Sparks/Market Street to the Tyson/Mineral Wells intersection along Veterans Drive.

He said he realized that may be more difficult that he thought from an engineering standpoint. But Commissioner Terry Fuller encouraged the project be looked into further. “We still have people who walk and have no transportation, so a sidewalk along that route would make it easier for people than walking along the highway,” he said.

Tharpe also suggested a project in which lighting in that area be improved.

--Ray Hill was re-appointed to the Board of Zoning Appeals for another three-year term.

Ticket Info for Tonight's Henry County High School Playoff Game

Paris, Tenn.-Henry County High School officials have released the following information: Tickets for the playoff game tonight against Kenwood are $8. Season passes have expired. A limited number of handicapped parking spaces are behind Patriot Stadium. Please carpool, arrive early, & pay for your entire party with exact change. This will make things run more smoothly & quickly so fans can be in the stadium prior to kick-off @ 7. Gates will open @ 4:30.

Dover Bridge Repairs May Cause Traffic Slowdown

Dover, Tenn. — A planned nine-month repair project on State Route 76 (Donelson Parkway) over the Dover Bridge which spans the Cumberland River in Dover may slow traffic and cause some backups, according to Dover Police Chief Kim Wallace.

Wallace has already set out a detour plan for the upcoming Christmas parade.

The planned project is similar to that done recently on the Ned McWherter Bridge at Paris Landing and will close one lane in each direction from Monday, Nov. 11, until about Aug. 15, 2014.

The Stewart County School System officials said even though two of the county's schools are west of the bridge and two are east of it, the slowdown should not affect the school system.

Wallace said a plan has been formulated to keep traffic from the west moving a little better on Saturday, Dec. 7, the day of the annual Stewart County Christmas Parade at 2 p.m.

She said that the lineup will be at the First Baptist Church Family Life Center on Church Street in Dover, and the parade will begin to go out on Cedar Street.

However, it will move around and go through the Regions Bank parking lot and enter Donelson Parkway at the east end of their parking lot, rather than entering Donelson Parkway at Cedar Street.

Meth Manufacture Charges Filed Against Couple

Union City, Tenn.-Two Union City residents were arrested on multiple charges Wednesday after a meth lab was found inside a home on South Miles Ave.

Police Officer John Buchanan said while he was on patrol in the 1500 block of E. Main St., he detected the odor associated with the manufacture of meth. He found the odor was coming from 102 S. Miles Ave. and after obtaining a search warrant and securing the residence, officers found most of the ingredients to manufacture meth inside a return air vent. A glass plate had residue that tested positive for meth and officers also located scales and needles. In a trash can outside, officers found a one pot shake bottle and an acid gas generator.

Arrested were Ashley Jean Ruark and Joshua David Green, both of that address. They were charged with manufacture of meth, promotion of the manufacture of meth, conspiracy to manufacture meth, possession of meth, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Green also was charged with criminal trespass.

Murray State to Offer New Doctor of Education Program

Murray, Ky. — The college of education at Murray State University is announced a new, innovative graduate degree program, beginning in the Fall 2014 semester. A new “Doctor of Education in P-20 & Community Leadership” provides education leaders at all levels with the opportunity to pursue advanced study. Specializations in pK-12 (pre-kindergarten through high school) and postsecondary education are available. The specialization in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) Leadership gives the degree a distinctive focus.

The offering of the degree program through Murray State University provides unprecedented access to a terminal degree for the education community in West Kentucky.

Paris Native Dr. Jay Morgan, provost and vice president for academic affairs at Murray State, said, “The education community has waited a long time for this opportunity. I appreciate the hard work of Dr. Jennifer Wyatt and Dr. Robert Lyons on the development of the program.”

Applications are being accepted for the Ed.D. in P-20 & Community Leadership for the Fall 2014 cohort. For more information on the program, contact Dr. Robert Lyons by email at rlyons@murraystate.edu or visit the website at www.murraystate.edu/p20.

Reelfoot Road Race This Weekend

Union City, Tenn.-The 35th Annual Reelfoot Road Race will be held Saturday, Nov. 9, at Union City High School. Registration is at 8:30 a.m., with race at 10 a.m. Cost is $18 for either the 5K or 10K.

Proceeds go toward Obion County and Union City High School Cross Country programs and Kiwanis.

Man Arrested for Using Fake Prescription

Union City, Tenn.-A Union City man was arrested and charged with attempting to obtain a controlled substance by fraud after he used a fake prescription at a local pharmacy. The fake prescription had the letterhead of a local orthopedic surgery.

Arrested was Donnie Hodges, 4564 Woodfin Rd. The prescription was for Lortab and Xanax.

Public Comment on Construction Project Sought

Union City, Tenn.-TDOT is seeking public comment in preparation of a Construction Re-evaluation on the proposed construction project on I-69 from south of State Route 3 (US 51) to south of State Route 5 in Obion County. The portion under consideration is from south of State Route 3 to south of State route 5, also known as Corridor 18.

This project is due to go to contract in the April 2014 bid- letting. The project is proposed as a four-lane divided facility on new location. The roadway will begin 0.2 mile south of SR-3 (U.S. 51) and extend to 0.2 mile south of SR-5. Two interchanges are proposed for the project; one at SR-3 (U.S. 51) and another at SR-184 (Old Troy Road). The project limits are illustrated on the map below.

Public Hearings were held on September 17 and 18, 2001. Funding has become available for the construction.

Written statements should be submitted by December 5, 2013, which is thirty days from the published date in the newspaper to the following address:

Project Comments

Tennessee Department of Transportation

Suite 700, James K. Polk Building

505 Deaderick Street

Nashville, TN 37243-0332

TDOT.comments@TN.gov

Thursday, November 7, 2013

"I Want to Fly Like an Eagle 'Till I'm Free"

Buchanan, Tenn.-Photographer Richard Graves of Buchanan captured this soaring bald eagle in the Kentucky Lake area. Several eagles have been nesting near the Paris Landing State Park.

Paris Winery to Expand to Murray

Murray, Ky.-Meeting in special session Wednesday, the Murray Board of Zoning Adjustments unanimously approved a conditional use permit for the operation of a wine sales and tasting business operated by the Paris Winery to be located at 117 S. 12th Street (formerly Domino's Pizza).

Roger Ciarrocchi, owner of Paris Winery and Vineyards on Harvey Bowden Rd., Paris, told members he would purchase the lot and apply for a 'small farm winery license'. The board's motion also required Ciarrocchi to provide screening and fencing to the property, meet signage requirements and pave the lot.

City Planner Justin Crise said the future wine-tasting and sales operation will occupy the entire 1,215 square foot building.

Ciarrocchi told the board he and his family may be manufacturing small amounts of wine on site.

Initial plans are to be open from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, Ciarrocchi said, and to provide anywhere between 50-100 gallons of variety wines to the store. He said the average attendance of wine tastings at his main facility ranges from five to 100 people, depending on the day and time of year.

Paris, Big Sandy, Martin Receive CDBG Grants

Nashville, Tenn.-Paris and Big Sandy are also among the communities in Tennessee that will be receiving more than $27 million in Community Development Block Grants. The grants assist communities with infrastructure, health and safety projects and downtown improvements.

The city of Paris was awarded $500,000 for housing projects. The grant awarded to Paris does not require a local match.

Big Sandy will receive a total $255,000 grant for wastewater treatment. That award will require a local match of $7,650.

Martin will receive a total $538,800 for sewer system improvements. That award will require a local match of $38,800.

Earlier it was announced that Rives and South Fulton in Obion County had received awards. Rives will receive $500,000 for housing rehab and that will require no local match. South Fulton will receive $622,000 for wastewater treatment, requiring a local match of $122,000.

Union City Christmas Open Houses This Weekend

Union City, Tenn.-It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Union City and it will be more so this weekend as the Christmas open houses will be held at downtown shops. Most shops will hold their open houses from 5-9 p.m. Saturday, November 9 and from 1-5 p.m. Sunday, November 10.

Dumped Tires a Problem in Houston County

Erin, Tenn.-Houston County Sheriff Deputies and Inmate work crews remove some two dozen tires from a local creek. In a press release, Sheriff Allison said the department received information about numerous tires being dumped on Leatherwood Road off a bridge into a creek. Sheriff's Deputies and Inmates removed a total of 24 tires. Sheriff Allison is seeking any information that would lead to the arrest and conviction of those individual(s) responsible. There were also a large number of tires discovered on Bear Creek Road in Houston County. Inmate trustees and the Houston County Litter crew worked two days this week to remove the tires, according to the sheriff’s department.

Application Period for Firefighters Grants Now Open

Nashville, Tenn.-The Fiscal Year 2013 application period for monies with the Assistance to Firefighters grant (AFG) program began Monday and will be open until Friday, December 6, at 5 p.m. EST.

One of the requirements is that departments must have a System for Award Management registration, which can be done at the sam.gov website. The registration is free and enables fire departments to apply for federal funding, too.

Fire departments can apply for AFG funds at https://portal.fema.gov.

Inman Glow Run Set

Paris, Tenn.-Inman School will hold its first-ever Glow Run at 6 p.m. Saturday at the school. Registration for the 5K run/walk and one mile fun run begins at 5:30 p.m.

$25 registration and registration forms are available at Inman School or at the Inman PAC Facebook page. All participants receive glow swag and prizes will be awarded.

HCMC Named Top Performer by Joint Commission

Paris, Tenn. – Henry County Medical Center today was named Top Performer on Key Quality Measures by The Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of health care organizations in America. Henry County Medical Center was recognized by The Joint Commission for exemplary performance in using evidence-based clinical processes that are shown to improve care for certain conditions, including heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, surgical care, children’s asthma, stroke and venous thromboembolism, as well as inpatient psychiatric services. New this year is a category for immunization and pneumonia and influenza.

Henry County Medical Center is one of 1,099 hospitals in the U.S. earning the distinction of Top Performer on Key Quality Measures for attaining and sustaining excellence in accountability measure performance. Henry County Medical Center was recognized for its achievement on the following measure sets: Pneumonia and Surgical Care. The ratings are based on an aggregation of accountability measure data reported to The Joint Commission during the 2012 calendar year. The list of Top Performer organizations increased by 77 percent from last year and it represents 33 percent of all Joint Commission-accredited hospitals reporting accountability measure performance data for 2012

Union City PD Investigates Theft

Union City, Tenn.-Union City Police are investigating a theft from the Pumpkin Patch Day Care Center earlier this week. According to the police report, someone unknown entered the center through a broken window and stole a DVD player. A desk drawer also was broken, but entry into it was unsuccessful.

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

McLean, Meals on Wheels Honored as Volunteers of Year

Fred McLean smiles as he learns he is named Volunteer of the Year. His wife, Jill, is seated next to him. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

By Shannon McFarlin

WENK/WTPR News Director

Paris, Tenn.-Paris Attorney Fred McLean was honoured as Volunteer of the Year and the Meals on Wheels program as Volunteer Site of the Year at the annual Henry County-Paris Chamber of Commerce Volunteer Center luncheon.

McLean has long-time ties with two local organizations, the Kiwanis Club and the Helping Hand Radio Auction. In presenting McLean with his award, Paris Mayor Sam Tharpe noted that as a volunteer for Kiwanis, McLean has assisted with football games, concessions, the Henry County Fair, the World’s Biggest Fish Fry, Special Olympics and the Paris Landing arts and crafts festival.

“Never doing just enough,” Tharpe said, McLean “starts at 7 a.m. and stays until the last detail is cleaned up.” Tharpe noted that McLean does the prep work, sells tickets and never leaves his station, but has also been gifted with administrative talents and has served as club president, on the board of directors and has been recognized as their club Member of the Year three times.

With Helping Hand, McLean has served as board of directors and president, but may be recognized more as an auctioneer for the annual Helping Hand event, which is broadcast each year on WENK/WTPR. Tharpe said McLean is known for creative adjectives during auctioneering such as ‘larpin’ and ‘maragoo’.

Tharpe said because of McLean’s service to Helping Hand, he ‘practically lives at the Enoch Building during January and February since 1988.”

In accepting the award, McLean said, “This is very much a surprise. At Helping Hand, I actually have the easy job. I’m the voice you hear” but other volunteers are at the radio action all day, every day.

McLean reminded everyone that the Helping Hand auction begins January 6 this year and each year now raises close to $300,000 for 70 different non-profit organizations. “I’ve always felt that the money that is raised is important,” he said, “but the sense of community is the main benefit of that activity.”

The local Meals on Wheels program, located in the Central Services building at 55 Jones Bend Rd., was named Volunteer Site of the Year. The award was presented by County Mayor Brent Greer, who noted, “Meeting basic human needs of the community has been the function of this year’s Site of the Year since 1973, when it was established as the first of its kind in Tennessee.”

Meals on Wheels is a model for utilizing volunteers to assist in the care of some of our most valuable citizens, Greer said, and has been copied by many other communities. Forty years later, the program is still going strong, with 135 volunteers serving 138 clients during 23,696” meal deliveries last year.

Greer lauded the program as a “highly successful example of a public/private partnership” that now serves Paris, Henry and Puryear. The program is coordinated by the Henry County Office on Aging, Anita Carroll at the community building in Puryear and Deb Snow at the Henry nutrition site.

Also at the luncheon, President’s Volunteer Service Awards were presented to 50 local volunteers. Additionally, those who have volunteered the most hours in 2012 were honoured: Carole Walsh, with 1875; Ginny Clark, 1337; Judy Travis, 1028; Linda Dunlap, 918; Janice Williamson, 613; and Elaine Graff, 700.

Deb Snow, middle, accepted the award for Meals on Wheels. On either side of her are Henry County Mayor Brent Greer and Volunteer Coordinator Galia Greer. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

And The Leaves Keep Falling Down

Paris, Tenn.-The walking trail at Eiffel Tower Park in Paris is strewn with leaves and after today's predicted wind and rain, will be even more so. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

$500,000 Grants Approved for South Fulton, Rives

Nashville, Tenn.-Governor Bill Haslam has announced the approval of $500,000 Community Development Block Grants for the cities of South Fulton and Rives in Obion County.

Haslam and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty recently approved more than $27 million in CDBG grants to assist Tennessee communities with infrastructure, health and safety projects and downtown improvements. A total of 66 grants were approved.

“Community Development Block Grants help communities complete projects that lay the groundwork for future economic development opportunities,” Haslam said. “I am pleased the state can partner with and assist our local communities with these improvements as we continue our work to make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs.,”

Hagerty said the grants enable communities to take steps that will ultimately encourage incumbent businesses to expand and future companies to relocate and invest in the state.

Senator John Stephens said, “I am very pleased these funds are available for improvements to housing rehabilitation. These are sizeable grants that will help move these projects along.” Stephens also thanked the Governor, Commissioner Hagerty and local officials for their work on securing the grants.

Henry County Veterans’ Day Programs Set

Paris, Tenn.-There will be several Veterans' Day programs at various schools in Henry County on Veterans' Day, November 11.

--Henry County High School will hold its annual Veteran's Day program at 9:30 am on Monday, November 11 in Gamlin Gymnasium.

The guest speaker this year is Michael Conklin, 2004 graduate of HCHS. Conklin joined the Marines in 2004 and was deployed to Iraq from April 2006 to April 2007.

There will also be choral and instrumental performances.

Veterans are encouraged to join in.

A reception will follow sponsored by the HCHS Military Club and HCHS RedZone Broadcasting.

--At Grove School, Bo Caldwell will be the special speaker at a program which will begin at 8 a.m. The Henry County sheriff's department will have a color guard there and Grove chorus members will ssing the National Anthem.

Students are encouraged to bring family members who are veterans. A breakfast reception for veterans will be held after the program.

--At Harrelson school in Puryear will have a public program which begins at 9 a.m. Gerald Boyd of the U.S. Navy will be the speaker. Students will perform a musical tribute to veterans.

--At Inman School, a program is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. and will include a freedom walk and slide presentation. The Inman band and chorus will perform.

--At Henry school, veteran family members of children at the school are invited to eat lunch between 10:20 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

Union City Council Ponders Discovery Park Access

Union City, Tenn.-At its regular monthly session Tuesday night, the Union City City Council pondered potential problems with the intersection and access to the newly-opened Discovery Park of America.

City council is working toward getting traffic signals installed at the intersection to ameliorate potential traffic problems there. The city had nothing to do with the design of the turning lanes there, but officials have said they know it’s an accident waiting to happen and won’t be cured until the signals are installed.

Council honoured the Lowe’s Improvement store for work they have completed on Kiwanis Park in downtown Union City. Lowe’s supplied materials and manpower over several weekends to enhance the park. Work included painting, mulching, installing sidewalk pavers, securing benches and tables, refurbishing restrooms and more.

Council presented a certificate of appreciation to Lowe’s Manager David Keller for the work.

In other business, council:

--Approved purchase of a new pickup truck for the water plant.

--Approved purchase of new uniforms for the police department.

--Approved funding for a new backstop and dugout at one of the Graham Park fields.

Paris, Tenn. -Airborne Gymnastics Academy (AGA) competed this past weekend (Sunday, November 3) at Gaylord Opryland Convention Center at the USAG 2013 Intrigue Invitational. This was a very large meet which started Friday November 1 and went through Sunday November 3. Every one of the girls placed on each apparatus and in the All-Arounds.

All Around scores are as follows: (all girls competing were Level 3 gymnast)

Level 3 CHA

Noe Wilkerson 31.700, Abbey Watkins 29.575, Allie Veglio 26.000

Level 3 CHB

Lauren Swisher 34.375, Lauren Dodd 33.425, Eowyn Gesler 27.025

Level 3 JRA

Ella Crichton 35.775, Addyson Kemp 31.500

Level SRA

Callie Green 35.325, Kate Hughes 33.800

Level SRB

Mae Whitby 31.675, Londyn Lampkins 31.625

Dare Graduates 180 Students

Pictured in the attachment are Dare Instructors, Mascot and essay winners:

Paris, Tenn.-Under the guidance of the Paris Police Department, 180 fifth graders from Paris Elementary School were graduated from the DARE program. DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance and Education program) is a drug prevention program in which uniformed police offers go into fifth grade classrooms to teach students the life skills they need to avoid involvement with drugs, alcohol, violence and gangs.

Reminder: Flapjack Fundraiser is Thursday

Paris, Tenn.--Just a reminder of the Flapjack Fundraiser for the Prevention of Child Abuse (formerly Kiwanis Pancake Day). The event will be held from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, November 7, at the First United Methodist Church. Tickets are $8 (kids under five free) and are available at Jack’s Java, Merison’s, from any board member, and at the Carl Perkins Center office in the 911 building on Brewer Street or at the door.

Morningside to Help with Angel Tree

Paris, Tenn.-Morningside Assisted Living is partnering with the Salvation Army in collecting toys for the Angel Tree program this year. People who want to help can bring their unwrapped toys and place them in the front office at Morningside anytime between now and December 12.

The front office is open every day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Anyone with questions can call Barbara, Joyce or Patsy at 731-644-9680.

Theft of Road Signs Prompts Action

Murray, Ky.-Approximately 30 Calloway County road signs have been stolen or damaged in recent days and the Calloway County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's help in nabbing those responsible.

On November 4, Calloway County Judge Larry Elkins notified the sheriff's office of the problem. Those damaged and missing include both road name signs and stop signs. The majority of the activity occurred in the northern portion of Calloway County.

In a press release, the Calloway County sheriff's office points out while some think this is just a joke and don’t take it seriously, the removal and damaging of signs is not just a nuisance to travelers but in an emergency can cause a delay in Emergency Services personnel being able locate a road in a timely manner.

The missing stop signs create a safety hazard which could result in a motor vehicle collision, the sheriff's office points out. Not to mention the unnecessary cost to the citizens of Calloway County. These acts are crimes which are punishable by law. The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with any information or anyone that observed this activity to call 270-753-3151.

Christmas Plans Underway in Stewart County

Dover, Tenn.-Halloween was just last week and it’s not even Thanksgiving yet, but plans for Christmas are well under way in Stewart County.

The county’s Historical Society is planning an annual Trees of Christmas event that will premier Dec. 7, on Christmas Parade Day.

Any individual, church, business, organization or youth group is eligible to decorate a tree if they would like. This year's theme is “Christmas Movies“. Anyone interested in putting up a tree may call Tana Sheets at 232-7468, or message her through Facebook.

“Be Local” T-Shirts Available

Paris, Tenn.-The Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, a partner of the Henry County Alliance, the City of Paris and the County of Henry unveiled “Shop Local, Eat Local, Live Local, Be Local” during the recent Small Business Expo in Paris.

“Be Local” is a community education campaign designed to highlight the benefits of keeping shopping dollars at home and the impact of city and county sales taxes on education, community events and public services.

The booth at the Small Business Expo featured short and long sleeved red t-shirts sporting the logo in white. We have had several requests for the shirts and are going to place another order. There is a form attached if you would like to order shirts, which are $10 for the short sleeve and $15 for the long sleeve. We will begin a “Be Local” push to wear the shirts together on Fridays in December. Please consider purchasing not only for yourself, but for your employees. You can scan the form and return it as email or fax us at 731.642.3454.

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Childress Among 27 Indicted by Henry County Grand Jury

John Eric Childress Nile Harris Mueller

Paris, Tenn.-A Camden man charged with killing his father in Henry County last summer was one of 27 individuals indicted by a Henry County Grand Jury on Monday. All 27 indictment requests presented to the grand jury were issued.

John Eric Childress, 32, Highland St., Camden, was indicted for the first-degree murder of his father Timothy Childress, 52, on June 1. The elder Childress was found in his home at 11770 Hwy. 641S. The indictment charges Childress with killing his father intentionally and with premeditation.

Childress has been held on $1 million bond in the Henry County Jail since his arrest.

In a related indictment, Robert Earl Watts of Paris was indicted for accessory after the fact for his part in providing Childress with the means to avoid arrest after the murder.

Other indictments include:

--Nile Harris Mueller, 7345 Main St., Cottage Grove, indicted for child abuse. He was arrested Sept. 13 for the incident in which he was charged with physically abusing a 3 ½ month infant who was treated at the local emergency room.

--Dennis Ricketts Jr., Paris, violation of sex offender registry. According to the indictment, Ricketts was convicted of a sex offense in Missouri and failed to notify local authorities of it when he moved here.

--Christopher Michael Woods, indicted for identity theft. According to the indictment, Woods was arrested August 8 on a charge of knowingly using another's personal information.

--Mitchell Calvin Shearer, indicted on a charge of burglary involving a garage in Mansfield on June 17.

--Jason Brian Lee, indicted for burglary June 7 at the Paris Country Club.

--Korey Rick, indicted for criminal attempt to commit robbery of money on May 9.

As with most grand jury indictments, most of the 27 indictments involve drug offenses.

Gibson To Serve as Grand Marshal of Veterans’ Parade

Johnny Gibson and his wife, Jane, in 2011. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Paris, Tenn.-Johnny Gibson of Springville has been selected as grand marshal for the 7th annual Veterans Day parade set to begin at 10 a.m. Saturday in Paris.

Henry County Veterans Service Director Bob Nolan said 28 entries have signed up for the parade so far and he will still be accepting entries up to the morning of the parade. “I would never turn anyone away,” he said. The veterans’ office phone number is 731-642-5055.

Gibson is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who enlisted in the Corps in 1941 and served as part of the 2nd Battalion 5th Marines in Guadalcanal and Leleliu. He was discharged from the military in 1945, after which he worked as a federal and state game warden and operated his own fishing and hunting guide service for many years.

The parade will begin on Fairgrounds Rd. and travel down East Wood street to Pennsylvania Ave. Nolan said entries then will swing over to Chickasaw Rd. and back to Fairgrounds Rd.

Over 4,300 Visit Discovery Park on First Weekend

Part of the first day crowds at Discovery Park. (Discovery Park photo).

Union City, Tenn.- Over 4,300 people from near and far enjoyed the opening weekend of Discovery Park of America and Discovery Park Marketing Director Mary Nita Bondurant said it has been getting rave reviews.

CEO Jim Rippy and Founder Robert Kirkland are very pleased with the opening weekend numbers and positive reviews from the guests. According to Rippy, “We had very few glitches; only one or two very small issues over the three day weekend, but I am ecstatic

Guests began filing in to the park immediately after the ribbon-cutting Friday morning and attendance was steady through the first weekend. The park is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and closed on Monday.

According to park officials, the grand opening celebration will take place throughout the month of May, 2014, when everything is in bloom. Bondurant sai,d “We have lots of events and festivities planned for May. But from now until then, the park is enjoying more of a soft opening.

“We are making sure that we have this right,” Rippy said. “We want our guests to have the very best experience possible. Saving the ‘grand’ opening until spring gives us time to make sure that we can handle the crowds.”

Jan Coffee , manager of The Cafe at Discovery Park, said that she was “blown away” by the response. “It was wonderful! Everyone was eating and having fun,” she said, “then, near the end of the day our Dippin’ Dots and cookies became very popular.” The Cafe at Discovery Park is open the same hours as the park. Coffee said that they will probably stay open until 5:30 on the weekends, so that guests can stop in for a drink or a cookie for the road.

Gift Shop Manager Lauren Sims reported that gift shop sales were excellen.t! “Our guests seemed very excited about the souvenirs and merchandise in the gift shop,” she said

For more information about groups, bus tours, educational field trips and what you can see and do at Discovery Park of America; please visit their website at www.discoveryparkofamerica.com.

Historical Society to Learn About Dr. Henrietta Veltman

Paris, Tenn.-The Henry County Historical Society will hold its regular quarterly meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, November 7 at the Paris-Henry County Heritage Center. The program will be given by Keith Veltman on the life of Dr. Henrietta Veltman.

Henry County’s “Lady Doctor” was a groundbreaking figure for women in the field of medicine, and she delivered over 5,000 babies during her 50 years of practice.

Union City Man Arrested for Assault

Union City, Tenn.-A Union City man was arrested Monday on a charge of aggravated assault after he allegedly stabbed another man in his backyard.

Arrested was Cody Todd, 515 Waddell St. According to the police report, a fight developed in his back yard when another man came to the house looking for his girlfriend.

“The Diamonds” to Perform November 16

Union City, Tenn.-The popular 1950s quartet The Diamonds, known for such famous songs as “Little Darlin,” “Silhouettes” and “The Stroll,” will be taking the stage at the Union City Civic Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16.

Their apperance is the third installment of the 2013-14 concert series for Community Concert Association of Union City/Obion County. Local memberships are still available or individual tickets may be purchased in advance for $20 at Lanzer Printing and Office Supply in downtown Union City or at the door. For more information, visit www.communityconcertuc.org.

The Diamonds started in the fall of 1953 with four men from Toronto, Canada, who eventually signed to Mercury Records and put 16 hits on the charts of Billboard. Group members included David Somerville, lead; Ted Kowalski, tenor; Phil Levitt; baritone; and Bill Reed, bass.

By 1961, all the original members had left the group, but The Diamonds still continued.

Memberships are available for the concert series, which also include performances by the Union City High School Jazz Band and the University of Tennessee at Martin’s Jazz Band on Feb. 22, 2014, and Chicago tribute band Transit Authority on April 26, 2014.

Three reciprocal performances available from Dyersburg Live On Stage are also included in the local membership. Shows there include Franc D’Ambrosio at the FCNB Auditorium on the campus of Dyersburg State Community College also at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 16; The Roys on Feb. 8, 2014; and Memphis Men’s Chorale and Memphis Women’s Chorale on April 5, 2014.

Local memberships are still available and are $95 for families, $45 for adults, $40 for seniors and $25 for students. Individual tickets for The Diamonds will be $20 and may be purchased in advance at Lanzer Printing and Office Supply in downtown Union City or at the door.

For more information, visit www.communityconcertuc.org.

Hayes Benefit Set for Friday

Paris, Tenn.-The Paris Jaycees will be holding a benefit for Yolanda Hayes at the Jaycee Building, 880 Industrial Rd., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 8. Hayes recently lost her battle with cancer. She was graduated from HCHS in 1986 and had been a secretary, clerk, youth leader and Sunday school teacher for Mt. Zion Church.

Grilled steak or chicken sandwiches, chips and drink will be served for $8. They can deliver for orders of five or more. Pre-orders are encouraged. Deadline for pre-orders is Thursday, November 7. Fax orders to 731-644-1143. Extra info call Cathy at 731-693-9086.

Union City PD Investigates Truck Theft, Assault

Union City, Tenn.-Union City Police are investigating a report of an aggravated assault which happened Sunday. Officers went to the emergency room at a local hospital to interview the victim, who appeared to be stabbed in the right upper leg area. The police report does not indicate whether a suspect is being sought.

Union City Police also investigating an incident in which a pickup truck was stolen from the parking lot of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology and later found in the parking lot of a retirement center on Friday.

The truck was stolen from a woman who told officers her grandmother was letting her use the 2000 Chevy pickup truck. She said the keys were under the floor mat and doors were not locked. Union City Police had entered the stolen vehicle into the NCIC when they found out that the truck had been found a couple hours later by a family member in the rear lot of the Davy Crockett retirement center.

Monday, November 4, 2013

Changing Colors Brighten Up Scenery

Union City, Tenn.-A ginko tree putting on quite a show in Obion County. Scenes similar to this can be seen throughout our area as Mother Nature changes the colors of the leaves. (Mitzi Hailey photo).

Reality Show Features Birdsong Marina and Pearl Farm

Camden, Tenn.-The gang at Birdsong Resort and Pearl Farm in Camden--Owner “Big” Bob Keast, his eccentric fiance Judy, and his ragtag team of “Dixie Divers”--are featured in a new reality show that debuted Sunday night on Animal Planet.

The show is called “Goin’ Pearl Crazy” and it is televised at 8:30 p.m. on Sunday nights this season.

The show was filmed on location at Birdsong Resort during the spring and summer and spotlights the antics of the owner and regulars at the resort and Pearl Farm--including the “Dixie Divers” and others--as they scour the river bottom in search of pearl-yielding mollusks.

Runners in the Tie-Dye run can't wait to get started. (Photo submitted by Tony Lawrence).

Paris, Tenn.-Saturday’s first-ever Tie Dye Run for Prevention at Eiffel Tower Park was a definite success, with 193 runners participating. Runners in the 5K run were splashed with colored corn starch, with five stations set up along the trail at the park where the 30 volunteers splashed the runners. Organizer Josh Greer said Henry County Monte Belew was the main splasher. “He threw blue corn starch at everyone, so if you saw people with blue corn starch on them Saturday, that was him doing that,” Greer said. The event raised money to send Henry County youth to the Tennessee Teen Institute in Cookeville. “Everyone had a blast,” Greer said.

Lakewood Speech Team Does Well in Contest

Paris, Tenn.-The Lakewood Middle School Speech Team competed at the Krider Invitational this past weekend at Henry County High School. The middle school squad competed against 16 high schools and had a finalist in the category of Original Oratory.

6th grader Drew Culbreath placed sixth out of 20 contestants from Kentucky and Tennessee. The team's next competition will be at Murray State University on Saturday, November 9, as they travel to compete in the "Tiger-Town" Middle School Tournament hosted by Murray High School.

The team is coached by David Weatherly.

HCHS Marching Patriots Places Third in Division at Band Masters

Memphis, Tenn.-The Henry County High School Marching Patriots did well at the Band Masters Competition in Memphis over the weekend. Twenty-six bands were in the competition.

The band finished third in class AAA, with a superior rating of 89.125, and ranked top percussion in class AAA (fifth overall). The band also finished in seventh place overall.

West Tennessee GOP to Host Ted Cruz’ Father

Texas Senator Ted Cruz, right, with his father Rafael.

Union City, Tenn.-Rafael Cruz, father of Ted Cruz, junior U.S. Senator from Texas, will be the featured speaker at this Saturday’s West Tennessee Reagan Day Dinner. The dinner will be held at 7 p.m. November 9 at Discovery Park of America in Union City.

Dinner is $50 and a premium pack for $150 includes dinner and private reception with Cruz from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.

Pastors in attendance are asked to meet after the reception to offer prayers for America. Registration ends today. Call 731-885-8950 or 885-8955 for reservations.

ROTC to Close at UT-Martin

Nashville, Tenn.-The Army is discontinuing ROTC programs at three Tennessee universities. The Nashville Tennessean is reporting the officer-training programs at the University of Tennessee at Martin, Tennessee Tech, and East Tennessee State are among 13 programs in the nation that are closing.

Nationwide, more than 1,300 universities train about 33,000 ROTC cadets.

SWAG to Expand Age Requirements

Paris, Tenn.-Organizers of Ladies With SWAG (Sisters with a Goal) have announced the organization will open to all girls ages 8-11. There will be two age groups, those 8-11 will work together as the Little Ladies With SWAG. Girls 12-18 will continue to be Ladies With SWAG.

Ladies With SWAG meets every second Saturday from 12-3:00 p.m. at Central Schools Community Building at 55 Jones Bend Rd.

Sunday, November 3, 2013

Mansfield Fire Under Investigation

Mansfield, Tenn.-A house trailer at 2385 Reynoldsburg Rd. was extensively damaged by a fire that occurred early Saturday morning and the cause of the blaze is under investigation.

Assistant Mansfield Volunteer Fire Chief Darren Webb said the initial call came in at 3:08 a.m. “The caller said that the trailer was fully engulfed, but when we arrived there, it really wasn’t,” Webb said. “We were able to save half of the trailer. We did an interior attack on it. We had it under control in 30 minutes or less. We had a quick knockdown, but a lot of mop up afterwards.”

Owner of the property is Hoss Beane of Mansfield. The last renter at the property, Webb said, apparently was in the process of moving out. “We were told that no one had lived there for a month, but there were some belongings still in the home,” he said.

Six firefighters from the Mansfield department and two of its trucks were on the scene and the Springville volunteer fire department arrived with mutual aid, bringing 6 or 7 firefighters and two trucks, Webb said.

The cause of the fire is being investigated, Webb said.

Moving Wall Ceremony Draws Crowd, Tears

Moving Wall will be in Camden until Monday

Reflected in the Moving Wall are Members of the Lexington State Guard as they stand at attention. (Shannon McFarlin photo).

Camden, Tenn.-A large crowd was on hand for the emotional Armed Forces Celebration Ceremony Saturday morning for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Moving Wall, which has been installed this weekend in Camden.

The Moving Wall is a half-size replica of the Veterans Memorial Wall that is in Washington, D.C. Volunteers are at the Moving Wall with directories to assist visitors who want to find a particular name on the wall.

The ceremony featured a flyover by several vintage WWII planes flown by the 1st TN Squadron, Warbirds of America. There also were heartfelt speeches by Vietnam War veterans, including General Barry Rice, patriotic songs, a three volley salute by the Smyrna Marine Corps Color Guard and “Amazing Grace” performed on the bagpipes by Ed Smith of Paris.

The Moving Wall is located with the Benton County Veterans Memorial at the Camden Industrial Park, just off of Hwy 641S. It is open 24 hours a day and will be in Camden until noon Monday.

Cutting the ribbon: (left to right) Obion County Chamber President Todd Petty; Jenny and Robert Kirkland, Martha and Jim Rippy and Union City Mayor Terry Hailey. (Mitzi Hailey photo).

Union City, Tenn.-A large crowd was on hand for Friday's ribbon-cutting and official opening of Discovery Park of America, a 50-acre attraction that combines exploration, education and enlightenment for all ages.

Discovery Center’s multi-story atriums are filled with exhibits that invite visitors to open their minds to a greater understanding and appreciation of our world…past, present and future. Highlights include:

- A theater simulation of the 1811-12 earthquakes that shaped the land in this region as well as a planetary tour in the starship theater.

- A 20,000-gallon aquarium revealing the underwater life of Reelfoot Lake.

Discovery Center also includes a Grand Hall with space for meetings and social events for groups of approximately 300 people, as well as a Tower Room that will accommodate about 70 people.

Outside at Discovery Park

Discovery Park’s 50-acre site will offer visitors a variety of experiences. Highlights include:

- A water feature that bisects the site, flowing north to south. Originating at the circa-1800s gristmill, the water feature includes waterfalls and bridges as well as extensive landscaping. Japanese, European and American gardens will allow visitors to connect with nature and learn about plants and flowers from around the world.

- Log cabins, farm buildings and equipment, and family items providing a glimpse into rural life in the 1800’s.

- A 100-year old church as well as a train station with a locomotive and various cars.

- A salute to American’s independence including a replica of the Liberty Bell.

Discovery Park is located at 830 Everett Blvd. and can be contacted at 877-885-5455.

A view from the tower: the church and train depot attractions can be seen. (Mitzi Hailey photo).

The human slide. (Mitzi Hailey photo).

Close-up of Train Depot attraction. (Mitzi Hailey photo).

Who Will They Play? Playoff Announcements

Paris, Tenn.-The Henry County Patriots will face Kenwood at home next Friday night in the first round of the 2013 Blue Cross Bowl Football Championships in Class 5A. Henry County beat Kenwood during the regular season by a score of 59-22.

Other local teams in the playoffs and their first-round opponents are:

1A-Union City has a bye. Hollow-Rock Bruceton will place Gleason. Dresden will have a bye week.

2A-Huntingdon will have a bye week.

3A-Camden will face Manassas.

4A-Fulton will play Unicoi.

You can follow your favorite teams through the playoffs at two websites: the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association at http://www.tssaa.org or at http://www.coacht.com.

Christmas Open Houses This Weekend in Paris

Paris, Tenn.-The weather was unseasonably warm, but Christmas was in the air Friday as Downtown Paris was lit up for the Christmas open houses. Downtown and its shops were all dressed up in their festive finery, with free goodies and mulled cider awaiting visitors. During Friday’s opening night, the Love Lights a Tree ceremony was held and the Inman School band performed. The open houses continue Saturday from 6-8 p.m. and Sunday from 1-5 p.m. On Sunday, the Henry County High School Madrigals will perform in various shops through the afternoon. Top photo, the Christmas tree is lit up on the courthouse lawn, while bottom photo shows Band Director Lucy Presson directing the Inman band. (Shannon McFarlin photos).

Nashville, Tenn.-Larry Sacks and the Goldstein/Sacks & Associates team have been providing accounting services for more than 25 years. The Nashville-based firm started a new chapter on November 1, 2013 when it merged with Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, the eighth largest accounting firm in Tennessee. Alexander Thompson Arnold has offices throughout west Tennessee, including Union City, Paris, McKenzie, Milan, Dyersburg, Trenton, and Jackson. It also has an office in Murray, Ky.

“Joining forces with Alexander Thompson Arnold has been very exciting for our team,” according to Larry Sacks. “ATA has the resources of a large accounting firm, which can be a great advantage for our clients, but they focus on providing personalized customer service. Our clients will see many positive things from this merger and will continue to work with the same employees they know and trust.”

Prior to joining ATA, Goldstein/Sacks provided high-end tax preparation, accounting and consulting services to individuals and businesses in the Nashville-area. Now, its coverage area will have access to ATA’s wide-variety of accounting, auditing and consulting services for individuals and organizations of various sizes.

For more information about Alexander Thompson Arnold CPAs, visit www.atacpa.net.

Career Coach to be at Library Next Week

Paris, Tenn.-The Career Coach will be at the W. G. Rhea Public Library on Wednesday, November 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Career Coach sets up in a van in the parking lot and helps people with job-hunting.

Friday, November 1, 2013

Henry County Victory Caps Off Perfect Season

Clarksville, Tenn.-The Henry County Patriots ended the season with a perfect 11-0 record Friday night with the team’s victory over West Creek by a score of 34-16. Even before the game, the Patriots had solidified the No. 1 spot in District 5A in the AP Poll. Playoffs begin next Friday night, with Henry County playing at home. The Patriots’ opponent will be announced Saturday morning.

A Close Encounter with “Henry the Honker”

Henry the Honker showing off for Photographer Richard Graves.

Buchanan, Tenn.-On a recent day kayaking near Paris Landing State Park to get one more special photograph for the state park’s photo contest, Photographer Richard Graves had a personal encounter with a Canadian goose that seemed to not only want to be his friend, but wanted to be photographed.

Graves said, “As I paddled into the Little Eagle Creek, I heard off in a distance a goose honking away, a typical sound on the lake. I just kept going. Suddenly, I felt and heard a wuf, wuf, wuf, near my head, and a Canadian Goose landed a few feet in front of the kayak and wanted to be a friend.“

Since a friend has to have a name, Graves named his temporary pal Henry the Honker. “As I continued into the Little Eagle Bay, Henry continued with me, following close behind. If he fell back because I was paddling too fast, he would fly past my head(wuf, wuf, wuf) and land in front, and drift back.“

Graves wanted to document the experience but with a telescopic lens, Henry was much too close. “So I continued on pursuing a photograph of an egret or heron or whatever comes available,“ he said, “but Henry had a different agenda, as I would carefully approach within camera range on an Egret, Henry would fly out from behind my kayak like a Pit Bull, and chase my subject away. Then Henry would fly back and fall in line.”

And that is how Graves got a perfect photograph of Henry the Honker.

Veterans Program Set Monday at KPAC

Paris, Tenn.-The Henry County Youth for the Arts will present a program for veterans at 7 p.m Monday, November 4, at the Krider Performing Arts Center (KPAC) on Volunteer Drive.

Several school groups will perform, including Veazey Vocals from Paris Elementary, named for Minette Veazey, which will perform the national anthem and other songs; the Paris-Henry County Youth Orchestra and PES fifth grade strings group will also perform patriotic songs.

The conclusion of the program will find the groups together with the Henry County High School Madrigals.

Also slated is the announcement of the winner of the fifth grade essay contest, “What a Veteran Means to Me” and the winner will read the essay. An art contest at the school for third and fourth graders produced the printed program and bookmark and winners of the contest will be announced.

State Parks Offer Free Day for Veterans on November 11

Nashville, Tenn.- Tennessee State Parks announced today its annual free state parks day for all Tennessee veterans offering one free night of camping and/or a complimentary round of golf with appropriate identification. Veterans Day is Monday, Nov. 11.

“On Veterans Day we honor the many brave men and women who have served our country,” Deputy Commissioner Brock Hill said. “The state parks family invites all of Tennessee’s veterans to visit us on Nov. 11 and enjoy a day in one of our beautiful parks.”

The free day on Nov. 11 is in addition to Tennessee State Parks’ current veterans’ policy, which includes a camping discount within the state parks system and is available annually beginning November 1 through March 31, offering a 25 percent reduction off the standard nightly base rates (depending on the type of site chosen). This camping discount is available to Tennessee residents showing proof of prior military duty.

A special state park discount also is in place for active duty military personnel and members of the Tennessee National Guard. This year-round discount is given to all U.S. military – regardless of their branch of service or where they are stationed. Disabled veterans also are eligible for the Tennessee State Parks year-round ADA discount that provides a 25 to 50 percent discount for campsites.

To receive the free state parks day benefits and extended discounts, veterans need to provide proof of residency with a Tennessee driver's license; and proof of veteran’s status, with a Certificate of Discharge (DD214) or Veterans Administration benefit card.

Tennessee’s 54 state parks offer diverse natural, recreational and cultural experiences for individuals, families, or business and professional groups. State park features range from pristine natural areas to 18-hole championship golf courses. Celebrating its 75th Anniversary this past year, the Tennessee State Parks system was established through legislation in 1937. Today, there is a state park within an hour’s drive of just about anywhere in the state, with features such as pristine natural areas and a variety of lodging and dining choices. For more information about Tennessee State Parks, please visit www.tnstateparks.com or connect via Facebook or Twitter. For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call 1-888-867-2757.

Molly Ringwald to Perform at The Dixie

Huntingdon, Tenn.- You probably remember her best for her iconic roles in the 1980s hit movies Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, and Pretty In Pink, but The Dixie Performing Arts Center will be presenting star Molly Ringwald in a new light at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, November 9, when she performs songs from her debut jazz album, “Except…Sometimes”.

The album includes a jazz interpretation of “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” from The Breakfast Club. The Dixie Children’s Chorus will also perform with Molly.

Get to know Molly Ringwald’s jazzier side at The Dixie. Tickets are $35 each and are available at The Dixie box office in downtown Huntingdon, by calling 731-986-2100, or online at www.dixiepac.net.

Turn Clocks Back Saturday Night

As cooler temperatures greet us each morning, it's a good time to get an extra hour of sleep. Daylight saving time is coming to an end on Sunday.

Daylight saving time ends 2 a.m. Sunday, which means it’s a good idea to set clocks back an hour before heading to bed on Saturday. And, as always, it's always a good time to remember to check the batteries in your smoke detectors.

Paris, Tenn.-Henry County Circuit Court Clerk Mike Wilson this morning issued a reminder that today is the deadline for anyone that received a jury summons for the November 2013 term of jury duty in Henry County. 250 summons were mailed out Friday, October 18 and are to be returned by today at 4:30 p.m. to the Circuit Court Clerk's Office.

Since the deadline is today, those that have not returned them yet should bring them to his office on the 2nd floor of the courthouse, downtown Paris.

HCHS Band Chili Supper Set For Tuesday

Paris, Tenn.-The Henry County High School Band will host an all-one-can-eat chili supper fundraiser on Tuesday, November 5. Lunch will be served from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., while dinner will be available from 4-6:30 p.m.

The meal includes chili with all the fixings and pimento cheese sandwiches or hot dogs, with drinks and homemade desserts. The event is held at the First United Methodist Church.

Tickets for each meal are $8. They are available at the door or from any band member.

November is “No Fines” at W.G. Rhea Library

Paris, Tenn.-November is “No fines” month at the W. G. Rhea Public Library. Director Connie McSwain said, “This program is a way for the library to say thanks for being customers of the library. Fines will be cleared for overdue materials. Damaged and/or lost materials will still need to be paid, so that the library may replace this material for others to enjoy.”

McSwain asked that in lieu of library fines, customers may and are encouraged to make a monetary donation to the Henry County Imagination Library.